Man’s appointment as Scotland’s first ‘period dignity officer' sparks debate

Jason Grant has been appointed by the authorities in Scotland’s Tay region. (Image credit: www.graingerpr.co.uk)

Scotland took a pathbreaking decision earlier this week to make period products free for all, drawing applause from around the world, but an appointment related to that legislation has now sparked criticism.

In the country's Tay region, local authorities have appointed a man as the country's first "period dignity officer" to help implement the landmark legislation. Many argued that the position should have been given to a woman, CNN reported.

The official, Jason Grant, will head a campaign to create awareness about the new law and take care of allocation of funds, the BBC reported.

Among those who criticised his appointment was Czech–American tennis star Martina Navratilova. On Twitter, she described it as  "f**king ridiculous".

Read: In a world first, Scotland to provide period products free for all

"Have we ever tried to explain to men how to shave or how to take care of their prostate or whatever?!? This is absurd," she added. 

Have we ever tried to explain to men how to shave or how to take care of their prostate or whatever?!? This is absurd.

— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) August 15, 2022

 

I don’t know how Scottish women feel about this, but as an English lover ofScotland, I’m fuming. https://t.co/kvWg6bReAd

— frances Barber (@francesbarber13) August 15, 2022

The Scotland government has denied any role in grant's appointment.

"Some local authorities are appointing staff to ensure they are complying with their new duties and making free products in line with the act," a government spokesperson told the BBC.

On the other hand, a period hygiene group, comprising representatives from several Scottish colleges, said Grant, who has earlier served as a student wellbeing officer, was the strongest candidate for the position.

"The role builds on some fantastic work which has been gathering speed across the Tay region for several years, led by a passionate group of people of all genders, ages and backgrounds," a spokesperson for the group told the BBC.