Local councillors from across the island of Ireland gathered in Cavan recently for an event which highlighted the vital role of local government in prevention, awareness-raising, and building safer communities.

The two-day event, supported by the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, brought together elected members, advocacy organisations, and policy experts to discuss practical actions all councils and councillors can take to support the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) campaign.

Throughout the programme, discussions focused on how councils can champion safer public spaces, work collaboratively with frontline services, and ensure that the lived experiences of women and girls inform local decision-making effectively.

Participants also heard from organisations working directly with survivors, as well as practitioners specialising in prevention and community engagement. The discussions also included the roles and responsibilities of the media and technology companies.

The event provided councillors with practical tools, resources, and best practices that can be applied across cities, towns and rural areas. It also offered opportunities to strengthen collaboration among local authorities, share learning, and promote consistent political leadership on EVAWG across the island of Ireland.

Pictured during the panel discussion on ‘Violence Against Women in Politics: The Impact on Female Elected Representatives’ (l-r): Cllr Bethany Ferris, Mid & East Antrim Borough Council; Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, Derry City & Strabane District Council; Cllr Cat O’Driscoll, Dublin City Council; Cllr Yemi Ademuga, Meath County Council, and Tara Farrell, Longford Women’s Link.

Cllr Billy Webb, NILGA President, stated: “Local government has a powerful role in shaping safer communities, and councillors are uniquely positioned to lead meaningful change. NILGA is proud to work jointly with AILG to support councillors not only with the knowledge and tools they need, but also the alliances and allyship that drive real progress on the EVAWG agenda.”

He pointed out that the collaboration reaffirms the shared commitment of both organisations, and the personal commitments of councillors to step up as allies, challenge harmful behaviours, and ensure women and girls feel safe, supported, and heard in every community, in every council area.

Cllr Mary Hanna Hourigan, AILG President, added: “Councillors are often the first point of contact for communities, and we have a duty to show leadership on one of the most urgent issues facing society today. AILG is delighted to partner with NILGA in equipping elected members with the tools they need to champion prevention, support local organisations, and influence policy. By working together, we strengthen our collective capacity to end violence against women and girls across the island of Ireland.”

During the event, NILGA and AILG formally launched a Joint Pledge on Leadership in Local Government to End Violence Against Women and Girls, (which was signed by Cllr Webb and Cllr Hanna Hourigan).

The joint pledge reinforces local government’s responsibility to help end violence against women and girls, committing both associations to high standards in public life, zero tolerance for intimidation, and the integration of EVAWG across all areas of council work.

Under the Memorandum of Collaboration councils north and south will continue to work together, strengthen capability, and demonstrate the leadership and accountability needed to support safer, more inclusive communities.