Campaign to end gender-based violence launched in North Cork 

A zero tolerance campaign to end violence against women and girls will be launched next week at IRD Duhallow in Newmarket.

The event will form part of a community-wide effort to end gender-based violence across the Cork North-West constituency.

The event will introduce the campaign’s community pledge as well as posters for local businesses.

There will also be practical guidance from frontline services on spotting and responding to abuse.

The campaign in Cork North-West is part of the national zero tolerance strategy to end gender-based violence in Ireland.

Cork North-West Sinn Féin senator Nicole Ryan is among those who are encouraging businesses and the public to back the campaign.

Zero tolerance

Ms Ryan said that the campaign offers an opportunity for local businesses, sports clubs, community groups, and schools to sign the zero tolerance pledge against gender-based violence and display it in their premises.

“The idea behind this campaign is to start raising awareness and getting people to have open conversations,” Ms Ryan told The Echo.

“So basically, a business might take the pledge and they would put up a sign saying that this is a safe space, zero tolerance is the policy here.

“That just lets people know that this is a safe space for me and that I can have a break here,” she said.

“It is about raising awareness around the community that we can’t be tolerant to gender-based violence against people.

“The coercive, often violent, control of women is not just a private problem, it’s a community issue and a human issue.

“By standing together we can create a culture where respect, safety, and equality are non-negotiable.

“Together, and especially by working alongside men, we can make a difference,” said Ms Ryan.

“Silence helps no one.”