'Delivering Women, Peace and Security'

I had the pleasure of speaking at a conference hosted by Hanna's House at Croke Park, Dublin yesterday afternoon.  Hanna's House is a home for an active feminist community in Ireland, working for a non-violent, just society that embraces diversity. 

This was an all Ireland conference on 'Delivering Women, Peace and Security' and considering how much progress has been made in implementing the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR)1325.

UNSCR1325 was a landmark international legal framework that addresses not only the inordinate impact of war on women, but also the pivotal role women should and do play in conflict management, conflict resolution and sustainable peace. 

I had been invited to speak about 'Gender Perspectives in Policing and Security'. President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins opened the conference. 

In addition to providing an update on progress towards addressing the under representation of women within the Police Service of Northern Ireland I also used the opportunity to pay tribute to influential women who had played a significant role in the peace process and conflict resolution.

I thought particularly of the words of Yvonne Black, who in spite of her personal tragedy said “grief in other homes will achieve nothing.” Even in the midst of such bereavement this courageous woman wanted to appeal for no retaliation. The thoughts and prayers of all right thinking people will be with Mrs Black and her family as they prepare to lay David to rest. 

I can think of so many other women of courage, some very public and some not so, who have played such an important role in peace making and peace keeping.

I encourage them, and everyone else, despite the events of last week to relentlessly work to achieve that goal. 

Deputy Gillespie pictured along with Michael D Higgins and other guest speakers at the conference.