Junior Ministers Jeffrey Donaldson and Gerry Kelly met with a delegation from the Northern Ireland Women's European Platform at Stormont to discuss the vital contribution that women make to society.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Donaldson said: "People are seeing just how devolution can really make a difference.
"Women still encounter disproportionate disadvantage in many aspects of life including employment, pay and as victims of domestic violence to use some examples. The Executive is committed to addressing these key inequalities."
Mr Kelly said: "It is encouraging to meet the Northern Ireland Women's European Platform, which represents such a wide range of women's interests.
"Equality is at the heart of all of government's policies, and I welcome the opportunity to hear the group's concerns and their work towards securing a better and equal future for all women here."
RESPECT EACH OTHER
Building respect for each others cultures will break down barriers and help celebrate our diversity and inter-cultural society, is the message from Culture Minister Edwin Poots.
He was speaking at the Annual Schools Against Racism Poetry and Short Story Competition.
The Minister said: "We live in an extremely diverse country with people of many different colours, creeds and nationalities choosing to make it their home and this is something which should be welcomed and celebrated. Which is why the theme of this competition; respect, is particularly important.
"In Northern Ireland, we have lived in a divided society for too long. The lasting peace has given people here the opportunity to break down barriers and begin to be able to live and work together. We must continue to challenge and change any prejudices and we can all play our part in this. We must promote the message racism has no place in our society.
The Minister continued: "The arts have a big part to play in the fight against racism and the promotion of good race relations. Various art forms including music, dance, theatre and literature can break down barriers in a way that is fun and engaging for young people."
GUIDE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey, launched three innovative new guides for young people at different stages of the care system.
Funded by the Children and Young People's Funding Package and developed by VOYPIC, the Voice of Young People in Care, the three booklets being launched are in response to the report 'Care Matters in Northern Ireland – a bridge to a better future', launched by the Department in 2007 and aimed at improving the outcome of care experienced children and young people.
Mr McGimpsey said: "For some of the 2,500 'looked after' children and young people in Northern Ireland, coming into care can be a very frightening experience. These guides will help to improve the care experience of these young people."
Each booklet is aimed at a different age group – the under 10's, 11-15 year olds and over 16 years.
The Minister concluded: "I commend VOYPIC for their work in developing this initiative as these guides will provide valuable information for children in the care system."
