Ever considered running for election?

If you’ve been toying with the idea but you’d like to know more before jumping in, Cork City Council has announced a free bespoke training and awareness programme aimed at increasing the number of women running for election in Cork City in 2024 and beyond.

Women make up 19 per cent of Cork City Council and only 23 per cent of the Dáil, where this year there is only one female TD from Cork.

Delivered in partnership with Women for Election, the ‘More Women for Election in Cork’ programme will run from late February to June this year with three tailored training events taking place in the historic Council Chamber in Cork City Hall.

The events will aim to engage, encourage and inspire women in all their diversity from across the county to consider getting involved in politics.

Upcoming events include:

• ‘Introduction to Politics’ with Pat Montague, an advocacy and strategy consultant working in the not-for-profit sector
• ‘Women Belong’ with Yemi Adenuga, the first black woman to be elected as a local councillor.
• ‘Power and Perseverance’ with Linda Kelly, National Secretary of Fórsa Trade Union.

“I really hope that next year, we will reach equal 50/50 representation in our historic council chamber,” said Lord Mayor Cllr Deirdre Forde.

“I am one of only six women to act as Cork City’s first citizen, this startling statistic highlights the imperative to prioritise gender equality and diversity at local government level.

“I would encourage the women of Cork to sign up for this fantastic opportunity.”

Cllr. Mary Rose Desmond, Chair of Cork City Council’s Women’s Caucus added: “Cork City Council’s Women’s Caucus have been working to carve out a pathway to ensure more women are represented in the Irish political system.

“Currently, Cork City Council ranks 17th out of 31 local authorities for female representation, With this in mind, we need to ensure we are working together to see more women step forward and run for election, this is what will facilitate change.”

To register for the free workshops, visit womenforelection.ie/cork/.