Alliance West Tyrone General Election candidate Stephen Donnelly has said International Men’s Day should be about acknowledging the changing roles and responsibilities of men in modern society.

Councillor Donnelly said important issues such as mental health, suicide among males, educational attainment and toxic masculinity should be talked about in order to break the taboo around many of them.

“For over 20 years, International Men’s Day has been marked in a growing number of countries around the world. Over that time, the roles of men and responsibilities of men have changed markedly,” he said.

“Historically, the day has been about recognising the positive contribution men make to society, and while that is still important, there is a growing change in the roles men are seen in and the responsibilities that come with them.

“Ending gender stereotypes around issues such as mental health, suicide and toxic masculinity, as well as improving areas such as educational attainment, helps not only males but everyone in the community. Too often, men will put off seeking help because of what they have been brought up to see as male stereotypes. International Men’s Day is an chance to smash those labels and be encouraged to talk about their feelings.

“Once we do that, we will be able to truly have a society with equal opportunities for all.”