We need more women to participate in politics – politics with a big P

Last Sunday, on the History Show on Radio One , I learnt something about the apparent absence of women from the foundation of the State.
It seems that Cumann na mBan were very anti Treaty, as it was not what they had wanted from the Rising. They then withdrew and perhaps that is part of the reason why so few women are part of the political process to this day?

We need to be in there making the arguments for change to the political system. As Nicola Byrne points out, our political system is there to suit men, but it is very hard to change it from the outside.

Minister Kathleen Lynch is hosting a major conference on Women in Politics on the Friday 20th January 2012 in Dublin Castle. I would encourage anyone who can spare the time to go.

Also best of luck to the 5050 group in the North West on their meeting tomorrow night.

Launch of 50:50 North West

50:50 launches in the North West

We are delighted to announce that the 50:50 Group is launching in the North West on Monday 16th January 2012 at the Clarion Hotel, SLIGO at 7.30pm.

The launch is being organised to coincide with the forthcoming debate on the recently published Electoral (Amendment) (Political Funding) Bill 2011. This Bill will see political parties lose half of their State funding if they do not have 30% women as candidates in general elections.

Further details on the launch to follow.  ALL WELCOME