An event in Derry will mark International Women's Day with a focus on nine women involved in a 2009 protest at a Raytheon facility. The gathering takes place on March 7 at Sandinos Cafe Bar on Water Street.

The women occupied the Springtown site on January 12, 2009. Named Roisin Barton, Roisin Bryce, Helen Deery, Betty Doherty, Goretti Horgan, Diana King, Jackie McKenna, Sharon Meenan and Julia Tor Rojo, they halted operations for more than half a day.

Their action related to the company's work on missiles and defence systems. It followed Israel's Operation Cast Lead in Gaza, which started in 2008, and came after a 2006 occupation by members of the Derry Anti-War Coalition at the same plant.

Raytheon Systems Limited closed its Springtown base on February 15, 2010.

Spoken word artist Abby Oliveira hosts the event. Performers include The Henry Girls, TRAMP, Eileen Webster, Moya Sweeney, Tillie & Henderson, Amanda Healy, Annie Ward, RUÁ, The Bluebelle Choir, Shazz White, Rachael Parkes, Jeanette Hutton and Leeanne Toland.

Tickets are available online via Skiddle.