14/05/2024
Blog by Kathryn Barr, Senior Policy Officer, Equality Commission NI
Writing in her latest blog, Kathryn Barr, Senior Policy Officer at the Equality Commission NI, looks at the lack of equality strategies in Northern Ireland.
"In 2021, the Northern Ireland Executive was due to launch LGBTQI+ and gender equality strategies. These were part of four promised, including anti-poverty and disability. But we are yet to see any of these strategies.
Northern Ireland has never had a sexual orientation or LGBTQI+ strategy. We did have a Gender Equality Strategy, but it ended in 2016. The work is being led by the Department for Communities and the Communities Minister recently said he is considering next steps.
It is vital work on these strategies is prioritised to advance equality for the LGBTQIA+ community."