Women in Politics

Professor Yvonne Galligan (QUB) Making democracy ‘fit for purpose’ is a continuing theme in 21st century politics. An aspect that has loomed large in this debate is the under-representation of women in political life. As legislatures across these islands and beyond have become more gender equal in representation, the record of women’s representation in the … Read more

Petitions of Concern

Dr Alex Schwartz (QUB) Northern Ireland’s system of government includes several mechanisms designed to facilitate inclusive cross-community power-sharing. One such mechanism is the “Petition of Concern”; any decision of the Assembly may be subjected to the requirement of cross-community consent where a Petition of Concern is signed by at least 30 MLAs. The Assembly and … Read more

The importance of doing regular physical activity to health, society and the economy: Time for a major re-think

Dr Mark Tully and Dr Ruth Hunter (QUB) It is estimated that physical inactivity is responsible for 6 –10% of deaths, at a cost to the NHS of £1.06 billion/year and so the potential public health dividend of increasing physical activity in the population is substantial. Recent data for Northern Ireland show that over 60% … Read more

Driving as a Public Health Problem

Professor Lindsay Prior (QUB) Young drivers have high injury rates and, as a result, high insurance premiums. Few interventions have been effective in reducing crash rates among young drivers, but restrictions introduced in other parts of the world such as Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) have been shown to be effective. To address the young driver … Read more

The Societal Effects of Sport in Northern Ireland: Examining Marginalisation and Mental Health Issues

Dr David Hassan (Ulster) This presentation will examine a range of societal effects of participation in sport, with a particular emphasis on improving mental health. It will build on a joint ministerial initiative promoting positive mental health in rural communities through sport, which was launched in March 2013. The presentation will also outline a range … Read more