Donegal County Council’s recent ‘Empower Her’ event provided a platform for women to voice their aspirations, concerns, and work towards a more inclusive political landscape.
Gathering in the Council Chamber at County House in Lifford, women from a cross-section of society participated.
At the last local elections in 2019, four female councillors out of a total Council of 37 were elected (just over 10 per cent). This time around there are 91 candidates running for election in Donegal, 19 (or 21%) are female.
The seminar explored ways to encourage and support women of all backgrounds into politics. The event was chaired by Eileen Magnier (below, centre), former North West Correspondent with RTE.
Michelle Maher is Programme Manager of ‘See Her Elected’. With females on the ballot paper in each electoral area, she said voters in the Local Elections in Donegal will have a great opportunity to vote for a woman.
Jessica McDevitt is Mayor of Donegal Youth Council. The 15-year-old student from Fintown is a third-year student at Gairmscoil Chú Uladh called for politics to be on the curriculum in every school in Donegal.
“There are only four schools in the county that teach politics at second level,” she explained.
“I believe that all schools should have the opportunity that I and my friends do. I know for sure there are members of Donegal Youth Council that will be sitting in this chamber as elected politicians in the future because of the experience that we have now.”
Patsy Lafferty is the Director of Service for Housing, Corporate and Cultural Services with Donegal County Council.
“This event was both inspiring and insightful. There is a very clear interest among women in this county to get involved in public participation, but there are barriers,” he said.
“Today has set a promising foundation for the future of women in politics in Donegal. Donegal County Council is committed to continuing this momentum, ensuring that these discussions translate into meaningful action and lasting change.”
Participant’s at Donegal County Council’s recent ‘Empower Her’ event. Pics by Gerard McHugh Photography.