First Stormont Assembly women's caucus formed on International Women's Day

THE establishment of a women's cross-party caucus in the North's Assembly – on International Women's Day – is a huge step forward for equality, Sinn Féin MLA Caitríona Ruane has said.

Caitríona, who was appointed Chair of the newly-established caucus, said:

“This is a huge step forward for equality and will put the voice of women at the heart of decision-making at the Assembly.

“I was deeply honoured to have been chosen by my fellow MLAs to be the first Chair of the first-ever cross-party women's caucus in the North.

“Women play a vital role in every aspect of our society and it is only fitting that the voice of women should be heard at the highest levels of Government.

“This is an indication of how far we have come in our struggle for equality but it is also a reminder of how far we still have to travel to ensure full equality for women in society.”