The findings of a report assisted by the Equal Opportunities Commission which looked at five professions, law, medicine, teaching, engineering and accounting and how women succeeded within these fields.

The report was based on in-depth interviews with 55 women over a 6 month period. The finding were that women felt that they didn't suffer discrimination at junior levels, however, once they were in promotion stakes that attitude changed and stereotypical views became apparent.

When addressing the question if it is harder for a woman to succeed in Northern Ireland, the answer was difficult to answer as in training and education there is little discrimination. What was found, was that informally and perhaps more powerfully, traditional roles of women came through along with women having more family pressure.

Conclusion to the question of whether or not it is harder for a woman than a man? - "unquestionably".

• NI Direct - PRONI