Taoiseach Micheál Martin stated that tackling gender-based violence requires an island-wide approach and cross-Border cooperation. He made the comments after meeting staff and service users from Women's Aid in Belfast on Thursday.

Martin described the meeting with women who had experienced abuse as an impactful encounter. The remarks followed a report that identified profound failures in a Police Service of Northern Ireland investigation into the murder of Katie Simpson.

Speaking at Queen’s University Great Hall in Belfast during the David Trimble lecture on Thursday evening, Martin noted that femicide rates have risen in Northern Ireland, with 30 women violently murdered over the past six years. He said gender-based violence concerns both jurisdictions and that cooperative approaches can improve government and societal responses.

The visit included meetings with Stormont politicians and business leaders. On Thursday, a €700 million cross-Border investment deal was signed for new Enterprise trains to reduce journey times on the Dublin-Belfast service.

In his lecture, Martin referenced the 1998 Belfast Agreement principles as central to Irish Government work in fostering relationships across the islands. He paid tribute to David Trimble for his role in the peace deal, highlighting his bravery and perseverance in building relationships amid criticism.