Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness joined TDs, Senators and Oireachtas staff in a cross-party walkout at Leinster House today, as people across Waterford and Ireland stood together against violence against women and girls.

The 15-minute action saw people walk out from workplaces, homes, businesses and educational institutions across the country, with organisations, community groups and local businesses in Waterford also showing their support.

Deputy McGuinness said:

“I was proud to walk out of the Dáil today alongside colleagues from across the political spectrum, while people across Waterford and right across Ireland stood together for women and girls.

“I want to commend Monica Murphy and everyone involved in organising this initiative, and every organisation, business and community group that backed it.

“But today’s solidarity has to be matched by action. The shocking figures published by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre today show just how much work remains to be done, particularly in challenging attitudes among young men towards consent, rape and survivors.

“We need greater investment in specialist services and supports for women and girls experiencing violence. But we also need men to step up and play a central role in breaking the cycle of violence.

“Men have a responsibility to challenge misogyny, to call out abusive behaviour and to make clear that consent means consent.

“Today we stood together and said no more. The next step is turning that message into meaningful action.”