Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I too want to begin by wishing all Members a happy International Women's Day. I am delighted that this morning the Government announced the decision to hold a referendum on gender equality, as recommended by the Citizens' Assembly on Gender Equality and the Joint Committee on Gender Equality.

We can all agree that the Constitution's reference to "a woman's place in the home" is, at best, outdated and is long overdue for amendment. The decision to hold one or more referendums on this issue is in line with the programme for Government's commitment to respond to each recommendation of the Citizens' Assembly on Gender Equality. Recognising that this referendum is long overdue, we will commence work on this immediately.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth will convene an interdepartmental committee. The interdepartmental committee will develop policy recommendations for consideration by the Government, with a view to agreement by the Government of the wording for the proposed referenda in mid-May. As outlined by the Minister, we are seeking to make progress on gender equality across all parts of government and we will have close regard to the Citizens' Assembly on Gender Equality. The national strategy for women and girls has come to a close and work will soon commence on a successor strategy, which will respond to the recommendations made by the citizens' assembly.

In addition, we have made efforts to create a fairer society by ensuring that women can effectively balance their home and work lives. Through the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill, we will extend breast-feeding breaks and introduce a right to medical leave for caring purposes. We will also become one of the first countries in Europe to introduce a statutory right to paid leave for victims of domestic violence. We have tackled gender inequality by introducing reporting on the gender pay gap and an obligation on employers to propose measures to address it. We have extended parent's leave from two weeks to seven weeks; made childcare more affordable, and increased the pay for childcare professionals. Achieving gender equality in our society, through the key actions I have mentioned, among others, is a priority for the Government. It is not just about the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth but about each Department - and indeed all parts of our society - stepping up and prioritising equality.

I thank Deputies for being present. I look forward to hearing their contributions as we celebrate International Women's Day.

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