SDLP Foyle MLA and Energy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin
The SDLP intends to introduce legislation to the Assembly that would place a duty on Executive Ministers to take steps to ensure that period products are available freely for all those who need them.
Speaking following the launch of the consultation this week, Sinéad McLaughlin said: “Period poverty is an important issue locally.
“During different stages of their lives, women, girls and trans men can face significant challenges in effectively managing menstruation.
“Whether it’s low income, barriers to accessing period products or the impact of social isolation, too many people are prevented from accessing the products they need to manage their health.
“We also know that menstrual care can be made difficult by circumstances such as homelessness, abusive relationships and health conditions like endometriosis.
“Access to period products is not a luxury, it is a necessity and it is far beyond time that our society treated it as such.
“That is why my colleague Pat Catney is bringing legislation to the Assembly that will make period products free for those who need them.
“I would encourage everyone to respond to the online consultation to help inform legislation that will create a fairer, more equal society where no one should be worried about the prohibitive cost of health products they need.”
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