To celebrate International Women’s Day on the 8th March 2011, local businesses KPMG and Barclays Wealth teamed up to organise their own version of the BBC’s Question Time. The event’s panel consisted of five senior local women primed to answer questions relating to various topics. The event took place at the Barrool Suite, in the Legislative Building on Finch Road. In response to the audience’s questions, the panellists shared their views on; The ban on gender pricing for insurance The sacking of Richard Keys and Andy Gray Views on the growth of Facebook If gender quotas for the make-up of Boards are a good idea And whether it ever really is possible to ‘have it all’, whatever your gender. Panellists on the evening were: Jane O’Rourke, CEO, Law Society Ita McArdle, Owner, Innish Consulting Caroline Cornish, Board member, Barclays Private Clients Dr Tracey Bell, Owner, Tracey Bell Trudi Williamson, Deputy Chairman, Isle of Man Newspapers The event was moderated by Manx Radio’s John Moss. After the interesting and lively panel session, guests stayed to enjoy a few drinks and delicious canapes in the impressive surroundings. Micky Swindale, Associate Director at KPMG commented: “We were very keen at KPMG to do something to mark International Women’s day, particularly in its Centenary Year. I had attended the Barclays event last year and really enjoyed it, so it made sense for two like-minded businesses to team up to provide an enjoyable, thought-provoking evening for our staff and clients.” Nikki Taylor, Chair of Barclays Wealth’s Women’s Internal Network in the Isle of Man added: “We see so many accomplished women in business today and thought this event would be a good idea to bring everyone together in one forum. The Barclays Wealth team consists of many successful women, a growing number of whom continue to progress well in business, so it is vital to share our experiences and encourage one another. We enjoyed the evening and want to thank the panellists, moderator and guests for joining us.” - Ends -