Above: members of the new Gender Equality Tribunal (Photo: GIS)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Following the passage of the Cayman Islands’ new Gender Equality Law, the government has formed its first-ever Gender Equality Tribunal.

The tribunal was approved by Cayman’s cabinet on Jan. 31, the day the new Gender Equality Law took effect.

It was signed by Governor Duncan Taylor on Oct. 11.

The new tribunal includes five members appointed by Governor Taylor: attorney Sheridan Brooks, the tribunal’s chairperson, along with Karie Bergstrom, Shaun Cockie, Andre Ebanks and Tammy Ebanks.

Brooks was the first qualified Caymanian female attorney to open a legal practice in the Cayman Islands just over 21 years ago.

The five have experience in areas including gender issues, social development, human rights and labour, as mandated by the law.

“After thorough consideration, I am pleased to announce the names of the five qualified individuals who have committed to this initiative,” said Mike Adam, Minister for Gender Affairs. “I am confident that this tribunal will help improve work environments so men and women can enjoy equal opportunities.”