President criticised for attending Saudi event

THE Government last night defended President Mary McAleese's appearance at the Jeddah Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia as the decision to participate in the prestigious event drew criticism from Labour Party deputy leader Liz McManus.

Ms McManus attacked the Government for scheduling the President's attendance at the event where "women were required to arrive through a separate entrance to sit, unseen, behind a Perspex screen".

Ms McManus argued that such treatment is symptomatic of a society where women are largely prevented from voting in elections and are subject to numerous discriminatory practices, which are sometimes required by law.