Cork Women's Caucus helping to promote diversity in local government

A special workshop designed to recruit, represent, and retain women in local government was held in Cork County Hall recently.

The government’s Oireachtas Caucus was established in 2017 and is a cross-party forum for Irish women parliamentarians to discuss and campaign on issues predominantly affecting women.

The vision of the Women’s Caucus is an Ireland where there is equal representation of women and men in the Oireachtas and on city and county councils.

The first Women’s Caucus in Cork County Council was established in 2022 to address the ongoing underrepresentation of women in local government.

Chair of Cork County Council’s Women’s caucus, Cllr Eileen Lynch, said: “Our caucus has been especially established to welcome more women into politics. I want women to know that they will be treated equally and supported through cross-party collaboration and cooperation.

“Interestingly, at 32% female representation, Cork County Council is at the higher end of local authorities in Ireland as regards moving towards gender equality.

“While encouraging increased participation of women and people of diversity is essential, if equality is to be truly achieved, the retention of existing female councillors is of vital importance.”

The workshop, which centered around the values of Cork County Council’s Women Caucus, namely gender equality, solidarity, diversity, and democracy, featured a range of speakers including president of Network Cork Susana Marambio, UCC’s School of Management and Marketing Dr Cliodhna McKenzie, andthe RCSI Institute of Leadership’s Dr Mary Collins.

Cork County Council’s first female chief executive Valerie O’Sullivan said: “Local government, much like any other sector, thrives when it reflects the rich tapestry of our communities. We must champion diversity and inclusivity, not merely as buzzwords, but as an integral part of our commitment to effective governance.

“Our Women’s Caucus plays a pivotal role in fostering this diversity,” Ms O’Sullivan said. “It provides a platform for women to connect, share experiences and support one another.

“It’s not just about breaking the glass ceiling, it’s about creating a network of support that helps us all rise together.”