East Derry MLA Cara Hunter
She was speaking after meeting the PSNI with SDLP Policing Board member Dolores Kelly.
Ms Hunter requested the meeting after the circulation of victim-blaming leaflets on rape at Ulster University’s Magee Campus in Derry.
She welcomed Chief Constable Simon Byrne’s commitment that the PSNI would conduct an internal review to provide reassurances to women and young girls.
Said the East Derry MLA: “We have all seen the horrific stories in the news and on social media following the murder of Sarah Everard.
“Nearly every woman has a story to tell about a time she has been made to feel uncomfortable while just going about her life.
“This has to stop, women should not have to learn self defence just so they can feel comfortable going for a walk in the evening.
“In the wake of all this happening I was shocked and disgusted to learn that the PSNI were handing out victim blaming leaflets during Freshers Week at Ulster University.
“Young women starting their time at university have enough to be concerned about without being confronted by these abhorrent leaflets.
“The PSNI have previously promised to pull these leaflets from circulation and destroy the remaining batch and I hope this time they will stick to their word.
“During the meeting we also discussed the PSNI’s plans to tackle rape, violence and intimidation against women.
“I strongly support their No Grey Zone campign around consent and what constitutes sexual assault.
“I also welcome their internal review on these matters and we need to see a committed strategy to restore women’s faith in policing.
“They must ensure that when these matters are raised they are taken seriously and police work to bring perpetrators to justice and allow women to feel safe in society.”
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