Four teenagers in Northern Ireland have launched 'The Athrú Project' to campaign for a dedicated Minister for Women's Safety and Health at Stormont. Eimear McCloskey, Pearse O'Neill, Aoísha O'Neill, and Devyn McAlister, aged 18 and 19, believe this role would provide a sole focus on improving women's safety, healthcare, and education.
The group was inspired to act by news stories about violence against women and girls (VAWG). Women's Aid recently stated that 31 women have been killed in Northern Ireland since 2020, with men responsible or charged in the vast majority of these deaths. Pearse O'Neill noted an increase in news about VAWG and misogynistic behaviour among younger boys in August 2025.
The Athrú Project suggests a dedicated minister could make legislation and tackle women's issues more efficiently, similar to roles in Westminster or Wales. They are also calling for improved infrastructure, reduced healthcare waiting lists, and broadened school curricula, including better sex and relationship education.
While the Executive Office launched an Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy in 2024 and the PSNI an action plan in 2022, the teenagers believe a dedicated minister with resources and attention could address the issues more effectively. They report positive engagement from politicians, including full SDLP support.