THE SDLP’s Derry Assembly member Sinéad McLaughlin has welcomed the progress of the party’s Period Poverty Bill in the Assembly on Tuesday.
The legislation, from SDLP Lagan Valley MLA Pat Catney, would provide free period products in schools, colleges and public buildings.
The Bill, which passed its consideration stage on International Women’s Day, is a direct response to the shocking levels of period poverty in Northern Ireland. A survey conducted by the SDLP last year found that:
• 45% of respondents struggled to afford or access period products during menstruation.
• 69% of respondents had been forced to use sanitary products for longer than advised or use unsuitable
alternatives (including toilet paper, newspaper or cloth).
• 42% of respondents had missed work or school as a result of their period or limited access to period products.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Over the last 18 months the SDLP has engaged with and listened to the compelling stories of women who have suffered the indignity and deep distress of period poverty.
“We have heard from people who have missed school or work because they can’t access period products, people who have been forced to use unsuitable alternatives including toilet paper or cloth and those who just can’t afford the cost of these vital healthcare products.
“I’d like to pay tribute to the work of Pat Catney and everyone who has come forward with their experience of period poverty.
“I know it has not been easy but the SDLP is determined to address this, to help break the stigma around talking about periods and to put real measures in place that will end period poverty.
“No one should face going to school, college or work worried about not being able to afford vital health products to manage their period.
“As the cost of living goes through the roof, it is unacceptable that people will be making decisions today to use unsuitable alternatives to period products like toilet roll, newspaper or cloth because they can’t afford to heat their home or feed their family.
“This legislation shows what can be achieved when parties work together to improve the lives of our communities and to put people first.
“We need to see more of this kind of positive delivery if we are to address the difficulties currently affecting families right across the North.”
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