Gender Equality
In the Programme for Government 2011-2015, the Northern Ireland Executive has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that no section of the community is left behind; equality of opportunity, fairness, inclusion and the promotion of good relations are cornerstones of our PfG priorities.
Latest updates
Gender as a risk factor for insurance
The European Court of Justice has ruled that the use of gender as a risk factor by insurers should not result in individual differences in premiums and benefits for men and women with effect from 21 December 2012.
Access the amended regulations from the UK Legislation website at the link below:
- The Sex Discrimination Order 1976 (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 - UK Legislation website
OFMDFM issued a consultation document on how insurers could use gender as a risk factor in the light of the judgment. The consultation document and summary report of consultation responses is available to download below:
- Consultation on the use of gender as a risk factor for insurance (PDF 311KB )
- Consultation summary report - Consultation on the use of gender as a risk factor for insurance (PDF 111KB)
Review of Government Funding for Women's Groups
The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister has conducted, with the Department for Social Development, an interim review of funding for women’s groups and organisations providing services in their communities.
Gender Equality Strategy 2006 - 2016
Promoting gender equality is one of the government‘s priorities and the Gender Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland 2006-2016 provides a policy framework for our work to mainstream gender equality and tackle gender inequalities.
Visit the Gender Equality Strategy 2006 – 2016 page for more information:
Gender Equality Publications and Legislation
In the Gender Equality publications section you can find publications on research, statistics and links to gender related legislation.
Contact us
The Childcare, Gender and Sexual Orientation unit are responsible for supporting and co-ordinating actions across departments and their agencies, to implement the Gender Equality Strategy.
Tel: 028 9052 8659
More useful links
- Equality Commission NI
- Equal Opportunities Commission
- The Equality Authority
- NI Human Rights Commission
