Government publish Action Plan for National Strategy for Women and Girls

The Government have announced the publication of the first Action Plan for the National Strategy for Women and Girls.

The National Strategy for Women and Girls is a Government plan aiming to level the playing field for women and girls to battle discrimination against them.

The Government say that the plan will utilise the Departments and agencies responsible for implementation and will establish mechanisms to track progress.

Some of the key commitments in the action plan include:

Support initiatives that will increase the number of women in local politics.

The introduction of a Parents Leave Pay Related Benefit.

Developing evidence-led public awareness campaigns that aim to change attitudes, prevent and reduce the incidence of domestic, sexual and gender based violence.

New training for early years educators and school age childcare practitioners on equality and opportunity for girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths related activities.

Further to this, there has been another €1 million in funding to support women to overcome barriers to employment. This aims to help organisations develop projects to support women’s participation in the workforce.

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley said: “I am delighted to publish the first Action Plan under the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2025–2030. While significant progress has been made, many women and girls continue to face barriers that affect their opportunities, wellbeing and full participation in society.

“I am also pleased to announce a new €1m funding call that will support organisations in helping women overcome barriers to employment, return to the workforce and access new opportunities. Together, these actions reaffirm our commitment to creating a more equal Ireland and ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.”