The 5050 Group in the North West sent out a series of questions relating to women’s equal representation to the 2016 General Election Candidates in Donegal and Sligo-Leitrim.
Below are the questions with the candidate responses.
| Donegal 2016 General Election Candidate: Frank McBrearty, Independent
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| QUESTIONS:
Do you support the 5050 Campaign for equal representation of women and men in Irish Politics?
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RESPONSES:
YES |
| Please Explain Why
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I believe we should have equal representation as everyone needs to have equal rights.
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| Are you in favour of introducing gender quotas for the 2019 local elections?
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UNDECIDED |
| Please Explain Why?
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I believe we should encourage more women to participate in political life but if we introduce gender quotas and these are not met this will cause problems.
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| Would you support an’ A Rural Strategy’ to encourage more women to run for the local elections both as independents and party candidates?
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YES |
| Would you support more women to take up leadership positions within your party, such as chairs and national executive members?
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NA |
| What actions will you take within your party or as an Independent to encourage and support increased female participation in politics?
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I would encourage any female to participate in politics as it is a worthwhile fulfilling job and we need the views of both male and females. |
| Would you support actions to make the Dáil more ‘family friendly’ by addressing the working hours, formalising maternity leave and considering other arrangements such as proxy voting and teleconferencing?
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YES |
| Please Explain Why | If we want more females to participate in politics then we must make it more family friendly and this would also benefit many male politicians as well. Win, win situation.
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