Advisory Council will be presenting the first of their newly-established Crystal Awards at a special event on Monday.

The prizes will be handed out at a luncheon hosted by the Premier, the Hon.

Sir John Swan and Lady Swan at Camden in the Botanical Gardens, Devonshire.

Members of the Women's Advisory Council, dignitaries and the first two recipients of the award will be attending the luncheon.

The UN observes International Women's Day every March 8 in an effort to increase awareness of the struggle of women for equality, justice, peace and freedom around the world.

The Women's Advisory Council has chosen this day to present its own awards to local individuals who have enhanced the quality of life for Bermudian women at home, in the workplace or in the community.

"We hope that Bermuda would also use this day to stop and reflect on the needs of women: how we address issues facing women and how we treat women in our society,'' said the council's chairperson, Mrs. Kim Young.

"Monday, March 8, is a day for everyone to reaffirm our community commitment to respect the fundamental human rights of all people.'' The Women's Advisory Council was first instituted in 1987.