Ms Caitr?ona Gleeson:

We have had conversations about this. Although we are seeking to accelerate to a ratio of 50:50 by 2030, we are concerned the ratio could drop back in the next local elections and general election, particularly with the suggested constituency rearrangements but also with the attrition rates in local government.

During Covid and post Covid, we have seen how much more of a burden there is, particularly on women, in terms of responsibilities. Women are much more time poor. We saw a huge take-up in our programmes in Women for Election throughout Covid-19 because women were hungry for more change in politics, particularly because of the visible absence of women from the decision-making tables that were critical to everybody's lives. We are concerned, however.

The new provisions for local government are not in place yet. They are not yet in effect. Women who are due to have babies at Christmas are going to have to stand out of politics if they are not supported with these provisions. I have only been in the job for 18 months and we have lost a number of women in local government due to the lack of care provision. I emphasise that point.