HEALTH
## Ballycastle Teenagers Lead Charge for Dedicated Women’s Minister to Tackle Gender-Based Violence
**Ballycastle, Northern Ireland** – A proactive group of teenagers from Ballycastle is spearheading a significant campaign, urging the Stormont Executive to establish a dedicated Women’s Minister. Their powerful call to action stems from a deep concern over the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls (VAWG) and a belief that focused leadership is essential for systemic change.
The young advocates voiced their conviction that the current political framework in Northern Ireland lacks a singular, high-level champion dedicated solely to gender equality and the protection of women and girls. They argue that a dedicated ministerial portfolio would ensure a coordinated governmental approach to policy development, resource allocation, and preventative strategies concerning VAWG.
“We see the statistics, we hear the stories, and we know that violence against women and girls is a grave reality in our society,” stated one of the young advocates, reflecting the collective sentiment. “It’s not enough to address these issues piecemeal; we need a committed voice at the heart of government whose primary responsibility is to champion the safety, rights, and equality of women and girls across Northern Ireland. This isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a societal one.”
The demand for a Women’s Minister comes at a time of heightened public discourse surrounding gender-based violence, both locally and internationally. The teenagers believe such a position would facilitate crucial cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that initiatives addressing education, justice, health, and social services are holistically integrated to tackle the root causes and consequences of violence effectively.
Their proactive stance underscores a growing desire among young people for political accountability and meaningful action on critical social issues. The Ballycastle teenagers’ call to Stormont is a clear signal that the next generation expects robust, dedicated leadership to create a safer and more equitable future for all women and girls in Northern Ireland.
