LW National Conference : Time to bring women in from the political cold

Issued : Saturday 17 October, 2009



LW National Conference took place on Sat 17th Oct in the Masion House, Dublin.





Cllr Rebecca Moynihan (Crumlin Kimmage) is one of the newly elected women Cllrs



At the Labour Women National Conference today, Sinead Ni Chulachain, Labour Women outgoing Chair said: "Ireland has to make some big decisions regarding our economic and social future. What role are women playing in making these crucial decisions and shaping our future? Now is the time to bring women in. For too long, Irish women have been left out in the cold.



"Women are acutely aware of the affects of cuts in areas such as education and health. It is women who balance the household budget and try to make ends meet on a daily basis. So instead of being restricted to making the sandwiches for the men at the top-table, women should take their seats at that table and have their say in what needs to be done!



"Labour Women have an ongoing campaign to involve more women in political decision-making. This is the only way to ensure that women's needs and priorities will be met into the future.

"Women are focused on problem-solving rather than power-struggles. Now is precisely the time to bring in problem-solvers. Irish women are strong, practical and resourceful women who have always come through hard times. But it is no longer enough to just come through tough times by playing a supporting role. Women have the right to be where the decisions are made and play leading roles. Because only 13% of Ireland's TDs are women, decisions on the economy, budget cuts and social policy are made without women's input.

"Women watched with horror as the fruits of the Celtic Tiger were squandered. Children who cannot get treatment for serious illnesses were left aside in favour of vanity projects such as voting machines. Domestic violence has shot up due to economic pressures, yet we continue to turn back women and children who are looking for refuge space.



"Community projects are being cut yet over-paid bosses get bonuses for presiding over under-performing services. While FAS has been having a ball, schools have to make do with prefabs. We have witnessed the reckless behaviour of many senior politicians and bankers, both sectors which have been cut off from reality for too long.

"Labour Women Conference motions reflect the concerns Labour Party members have. The issue of the cervical cancer vaccine hasn't gone away. Women unjustly denied a pension due to the marriage bar, unregulated infertility treatment, the appalling sex industry, losing employment, budget cuts, child benefit and domestic violence are amongst the motions debated.

"Labour Women have worked for, and with, women for over 30 years. We will continue to be the political voice for women. We need women to step forward and speak out on the issues which affect them. We call upon all political parties, public bodies, and those with power, to ensure that women - who comprise half of the population - have half of the positions on boards and in bodies with decision-making capacities. Only then will Ireland be able to create the fair society we all espouse."