Instead of being laggards on gender balance, we should be leaders
This government continues to go backwards when it comes to gender balance in government, according to Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins.
“This government has a shameful record when it comes to giving women a seat at the top table. Last week, just three women were appointed to cabinet – a risible figure.
“To put that into stark relief, there are now as many men named James in the cabinet as there are women.
“Today, six women out of a total of 23 ministers of state were appointed. However, the previous government comprised six women out of a complement of 20 ministers of state.
“Instead of making progress on increased gender balance, the government is again going backwards.
“Ireland has the worst gender balance of parliaments in western Europe, with women making up only 25 per cent of TDs.
“Instead of being laggards in this area, we should be leaders. Ireland would benefit hugely from having, not just more women in politics, but more women in senior and leadership positions in government.
“Until women see themselves fairly represented in leadership positions in government, this is unlikely to happen.”