Republican News · Thursday 9 May 2002

Poverty among women getting worse

Cork East candidate June Murphy says that poverty amongst women is getting worse and needs to be addressed urgently. The findings of the National Women's Council report are in line with what she was finding on the doorstep. June Murphy was speaking in Dublin at the launch of Sinn Féin candidates for the general election.

June Murphy said: "I welcome the timely report of the National Woman's Council of Ireland which highlights the worsening situation for poor women in Ireland. It estimates that 22% of women are living below the 50% poverty line.

"The report reinforces what I have seen is position of many women in the Cork East constituency. From towns like Mallow to Midleton to Cobh, and in rural areas, many women, particularly older women, lone parents and women living alone, are facing a great deal of poverty.

I also agree with the report's conclusions that these problems need to be addressed by

• Improving childcare facilities
• Recognising the work of carers who are mostly women
• Increase the minimum wage.

"To their conclusions I would add better housing. It is shocking what some people are living in. Again, women seem to be in accommodation with some of the worst conditions. All candidates should be presented with this report and asked how they will deal with the problems raised by it."