Sinn Féin MLA Aoife Finnegan has said while International Women’s Day is about celebrating women, it is also about recognising the need for all of us—men and women—to work together to break down barriers. 

In her first address to the Assembly Aoife Finnegan MLA said it was a great privilege for her first contribution to an Assembly debate to be on a motion marking International Women’s Day. 

“I am committed to the struggle for equality for everyone, and to an Ireland of Equals—built on fairness, justice, and opportunity for all. 

“While International Women’s Day is about celebrating women, it is also about recognising the need for all of us—men and women—to work together to break down barriers. 

“Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue, and it requires real commitment from all of us in this chamber and beyond. 

“I am proud to stand with Sinn Féin, a party leading the way for real change. And in the context of International Women’s Day, I am particularly proud to be part of a team where over half of our MLAs are women. 

“These incredible women inspire me every day to fight against injustice and the inequalities caused by partition. 

“I am committed to the struggle for equality for everyone,” she said. 

The new Newry and Armagh MLA also highlighted the importance of advocating for workers, families, and communities, particularly in neglected rural, border regions. 

And committed to securing a School Enhancement Programme for St. Patrick’s Primary School in Crossmaglen, and called for rural schools across the constituency to remain a priority, adding:

“This school has long served our community with dedication, but it now faces significant challenges due to outdated infrastructure and inadequate facilities.

“I will work tirelessly so that children and staff in Crossmaglen – and in schools throughout Newry Armagh – have the opportunity to thrive in fit-for-purpose, modern school accommodation that provides safe and supportive learning environments.” 

Concluding her speech, Aoife Finnegan called for collective action towards achieving gender equality, saying:

“As we mark International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that women’s voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their contributions are valued in every sector of our society.”