Violence against Women and Girls 2024-11-27
2024-11-27
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Questions & Answers
Q1
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White Ribbon Day marks the start of activism against violence against women and girls. The Labour Government aims to halve this violence within a decade.
What discussions has the government had with the Northern Ireland Executive on tackling violence against women and girls?
White Ribbon Day marks the start of activism against violence against women and girls. The Government has set an ambition to halve this violence within a decade. I have discussed this issue with the First and Deputy First Ministers, and we will continue working collaboratively.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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Women's Aid reports that a fifth of all crime in Northern Ireland is domestic abuse. Paramilitary organisations make reporting, confronting or escaping such abuse difficult.
How are the Government working with the Northern Ireland Executive to break down coercive barriers to support for women and girls, especially given paramilitarism?
Alongside alarming femicide statistics, there are factors adding complexity to gender-based violence in Northern Ireland. One such factor is paramilitarism which needs to be tackled.
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Q3
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This year's White Ribbon Day theme is, “It starts with men”. Men have a role in stamping out violence against women and girls.
Does the Minister agree that it is important for us all, especially men, to play our part in stopping violence against women and girls? How is she working with Northern Ireland Executive on this?
I met with Tahnee McCorry from White Ribbon Northern Ireland who works with men in football, GAA teams and prisons. We all have a role in changing our society.
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Q4
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The Northern Ireland Executive's strategic framework acknowledges the rise of online influencers with a toxic influence on men and boys.
Will the Minister provide an update on discussions regarding sharing best practice to challenge these influencers and promote healthier attitudes towards relationships?
I am supportive of the Executive's strategic framework. I meet regularly with White Ribbon NI to learn and share best practice in tackling violence against women and girls online.
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Q5
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Six women were murdered by men last year, all cases are pending. Women's Aid organizations supported over 800 women and children in refuges.
What can the Minister do to improve conditions for victims of violence against women in Northern Ireland through discussions with the Northern Ireland Assembly?
I pay tribute to Women's Aid organisations. Prevention and service provision are key, tackling online abuse and violence by everyone in the UK is necessary to change this situation.
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Q6
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The number of police officers in Northern Ireland is below the recommended level.
Does the Minister agree that the low number of police officers hinders the fight against violence against women? Will she work to increase officer numbers to 7,500?
Police action is important but it is also about a whole-of-society change. Every organisation needs to get involved in tackling misogyny wherever we see it.
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Q7
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New Decade, New Approach commitment included increasing policing numbers.
When does the Minister expect policing numbers in Northern Ireland to reach levels set out in the commitment?
This Government provided £18.2 billion in devolution settlement, with £640 million this year and £1.5 billion next year. It is now up to the Chief Constable to spend these figures.
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Specific timeline not provided
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