In 2012 we introduced 30% gender quotas for political parties running candidates. In 2023 this has increased to 40%. Since the establishment of the quota, we have seen increases in women’s representation from 16% in 2011 to 22.5% in 2020.
Since the last election we’ve provided over €1.5m to help increase the number of women and persons from minorities in politics.
We’ve introduced paid paternity benefit, parent’s benefit and the National Childcare Scheme and extended parent’s leave so that parents can better balance work with family and caring commitments.
Through Ireland’s first National Maternity Strategy and Women’s Health Action Plan, we’re striving to provide better, patient-centred care at every life stage.
We’re implementing policies to help women in business with funding, mentoring and other supports and we’re increasing the number of women apprentices through the new bursary fund.
We’ve led the way on referenda and positive social change, including ensuring a woman’s right to choose by repealing the 8th Amendment, securing marriage equality, safeguarding children’s rights, and reforming divorce.