6 May 2026
SDLP Belfast City Council Group Leader Councillor Séamas de Faoite has secured a commitment to recognise the contribution of women to Belfast through the Freedom of the City.
It comes after he raised the lack of gender balance among recipients of the honour.
Council will now bring back proposals in consultation with the women’s sector to identify four women who have made a lasting impact on the city. They will be awarded the honour as part of events surrounding International Women’s Day in March 2027.
Councillor Séamas de Faoite said:
“The Freedom of Belfast has been awarded on many occasions throughout our city’s history, but the vast majority of recipients have been men. While this is an important opportunity to honour those who have made a contribution to Belfast or the wider world, I feel that we need to make an effort to ensure balance when awarding this distinction.
“There have been hundreds of women who have played an important part in the life of our city, from our artists and performers, to our community workers and campaigners – all have made an indelible mark on the place we call home and it’s right that they are recognised.
“It’s important that this work is carried out in partnership with the women’s sector and I welcome support for my proposal for four women to be identified to receive this honour as part of next year’s International Women’s Day programme. I hope this will be the start of seeing the Freedom of Belfast bestowed in a way that reflects the diversity of our city.”