Presiding Officer commits National Assembly to Stonewall’s “No Bystanders” campaign

Published 24/10/2014   |   Last Updated 09/06/2015

The National Assembly's Presiding Officer, Dame Rosemary Butler AM, will commit the Assembly to Stonewall's campaign challenging and stamping out workplace bullying.

She will make the pledge during a keynote speech to Stonewall Cymru's Workplace Conference, at the Wales Millennium Centre, on 24 October.

"We are at an important time in the history of gay rights, a time of great change and a moment to look back at what has been achieved in the UK and what remains to be achieved here and elsewhere," Dame Rosemary will say.

"While we celebrate the freedoms and protections that LGB people in the UK can enjoy, it is important to remember that there is still work to be done to promote LGB equality across our society, including in the workplace, to challenge harassment, abuse and discrimination.

"Stonewall's 'No Bystanders' campaign reminds us that there are still challenges ahead and I am pleased to say that along with staff and elected Members across the National Assembly for Wales, I have taken the pledge to challenge bullying and offensive language.  As an organisation we fully support the campaign."

During her speech, Dame Rosemary will outline how the Assembly works with Stonewall Cymru to address the issue of discrimination against LGB members of our community, both in the workplace and beyond.

The Presiding Officer added: "Our commitment to reaching out to all of the people of Wales is why we are a part of Stonewall's Diversity Champion programme, why we enter the workplace equality index, why we have a staff network, why we attend Pride, why we mark LGBT History Month and International Day Against Homophobia and why I am here today."