An inaugural summit has been held in Belfast celebrating women in construction across Northern Ireland.

Held at the Crowne Plaza hotel, the Women in Construction NI Summit focused on "inspiring change and shattering stereotypes" centred on two strands: 'Career Management and Progression', and 'Applying the Business Case for Diversity'.

CITB NI, the Industry Training Board for the construction industry, and CITB NI Women in Construction Network hosted the event, treating attendees to inspirational stories, business advice and thought-provoking tips on career management at the conference, which featured contributions from leading industry professionals.

GRAHAM colleagues Emer Murnaghan and Attracta Matthews jointly delivered a presentation on "growing an inclusive culture", explaining the importance of "Fairness, Inclusion and Respect" (FIR).

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"At GRAHAM, FIR is a business priority that is not driven by just legislative requirements. It is also the pillar of our people strategy. There is strong evidence that FIR can be harnessed to enact positive business change. Of course, positive change takes time, but we are leading by example and playing a prominent role in promoting FIR and growing an inclusive culture, which was the basis of our presentation," explained Emer.

Reflecting on the inaugural Women in Construction NI Summit, Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI, said: "With an ageing workforce, a skills shortage and the increasing use of new technologies, there has never been a better time to encourage more diversity in construction. Increasing the talent pool and making it easier for women and other underrepresented populations to not just join the industry but to remain in the industry, is common sense for any employer. Given that it has been proven that more diversity in the workforce and particularly in leadership positions, can lead to higher profits and more innovation, it makes good business sense too."

The summit coincided with International Woman's Day, which takes place this Sunday, 08 March.

International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women - while also marking a call to action for accelerating gender balance.

(CM/JG)