Women’s research funds ‘disappear’

Press, 22 June 1989, Page 24

Women’s research funds ‘disappear’

PA Wellington The Society for Research on Women may have to go out of existence “since Government funding seems to have disappeared,” according to the national president, Ms Judy Owen.

“S.R.O.W. has just held its national annual meeting, at which branches had a number of proposals for future projects. However, we have not been able to get any assurance from the Government that our funding will be available for 1989-90,” she said. “We understand that social science research funding is currently under review.

“We urge that not only should social science receive separate funding from other research, but

also that part of the social science research funding should be tagged specifically for research on women.” S.R.O.W. had been producing research on all aspects of women’s lives for more than 20 years. This research was done on a minimal budget. Voluntary workers carried the burden of the work, she said. “The sum which seems to have vanished is only $7500; it would not even buy a gun turret on a frigate. Yet for that amount, S.R.O.W. could carry out three research projects.” she said. The Government should look at its priorities for women. This issue, which could have widely beneficial results, must not be overlooked, Ms Owen said.