Period justice within sight
Labour Senator Rebecca Moynihan has praised Lidl and their partnership with Homeless Period Ireland following its announcement that it will offer free period products in stores nationwide to tackle period injustice. Senator Moynihan introduced legislation in January which would compel the Minister for Health to provide period products free of charge in education settings and public buildings throughout the country.
Senator Moynihan said:
“It’s hugely impressive to see Lidl take the lead on to pave the way for period justice in Ireland in a scheme that is open to all whilst also targeting those who need it most through its commitment to work with the Simon Communities to ensure people experiencing homelessness can access essential products.
“This move is thanks to the trojan work of the Homeless Period Ireland’s campaigning led by Claire Hunt. Everything Claire has achieved is a testament to the voluntary work she has put in over many years and I hope this is a sign of things to come.
“When there’s a will, there’s a way. Lidl is leading by example on period justice and I hope that the Government see that if a private company is willing to take a leap forward on period justice, then it is absolutely possible and incumbent on the State to do so too. The Bill published by the Labour Party would provide for universal access to period products in education settings and public buildings throughout the country. Taking a universal approach by investing in period justice will protect the most vulnerable in society and end the unnecessary stigma around periods in Ireland.
“Feedback from my public consultation highlighted that while almost half of women (46%) have experienced problems accessing or affording period products, 60% have had increased difficulty in accessing period products due to Covid. This can have huge social and health consequences, but ultimately it is an affront to our dignity as humans. We’re not expected to carry around toilet paper, why are period products treated differently?
“We can have period justice in Ireland. We can have a comprehensive national, public scheme to provide free access to period products. Period products must be freely available to all who want them, and any scheme must be inclusive in every respect.”