Clarke voices support for initiative aimed at combating period poverty
(Above) Deputy Sorca Clarke.
Deputy Sorca Clarke has called on businesses and the public to back a new initiative to combat period poverty.
The Sinn Féin TD says that "everybody deserves access to basic essential sanitary products regardless of income levels, housing situation or any other circumstances. It’s a matter of basic human dignity".
“In many instances people, sometimes through no fault of their own, find themselves in a situation where they cannot afford necessities. One of those necessities are products for women’s menstrual cycles.
“Like any other essential products they should be made available to all who need them or at the very least be made affordable. Therefore, I applaud Lidl’s announcement that they will partner with Homeless Period Ireland and the Simon Communities of Ireland to provide free sanitary products to people in need.
“I would call on other businesses to follow their lead. It’s essential that in these times of hardship women aren’t forced to put themselves into poverty in order to meet their basic hygiene needs.
“The great work being done by Homeless Period Ireland and the Simon Community needs our support. Whether it be through requesting that businesses follow Lidl’s example, by donating or by volunteering time to promote the cause we can all play a role in ensuring peoples basic needs are met.”
On Monday, Lidl Ireland announced that it is to become the first major retailer in the world to offer free period products in its stores in partnership with Homeless Period Ireland and the Simon Community.
The discount supermarket chain said the initiative was aimed at tackling period poverty.
It will involve a dedicated coupon for a free box of sanitary pads or tampons per customer each month through its app, Lidl Plus.
It has also committed to making quarterly donations of these products to The Simon Communities to ensure people experiencing homelessness - who may not have access to a smartphone - can access these essential products.