Sinn Féin councillor Fergal Leonard has launched a leaflet campaign in Strabane district to address violence against women and girls. Thousands of leaflets have been distributed across urban and rural areas. The materials outline support options for victims.

Leonard, whose sister Concepta was killed in a domestic violence incident in May 2017, called on victims to seek help. He described violence against women and girls as a widespread issue occurring in homes, streets, and communities.

He stated that men and boys must take action to end such violence and ensure victims receive support to escape abuse, stalking, or coercive control. Leonard emphasized that perpetrators bear the shame, not victims.

Leonard noted two recent cases since the leaflets were printed: the killings of Ellie Flanagan in Enniskillen and Amy Doherty in Derry. He said 30 women have died in similar incidents across Northern Ireland in under six years.

The councillor urged anyone affected by gender-based abuse to contact available services.