Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

I deal with mother and toddler groups, community groups and others who have a strong representation of women on issues relating to hospitals, health and caring. These matters are very close to the agenda of most women involved in even the most minor activities in their community. They are the ones we want to come on to local authorities.

If the dual mandate is abolished and a number of us are prevented from standing in next year's local elections, then it is incumbent on the political parties to ensure they do not just pay lipservice to gender balance. This change will present a real opportunity to increase female representation. We will keep a close eye on that issue.