NWCI launches new Strategic Plan 2013 - 2015
Published: Thursday, June 13, 2013
At the 40th Anniversary AGM, describing 2013 as 'a time of promising change, Orla O'Connor, Director of the National Women's Council invited more Irish women to join with the NWCI and continue on the road to full continue equality for women. 'There continue to be significant challenges and we have a long way to go to realising women's human rights and attaining full equality.'
Orla O'Connor was speaking at an event in Dublin this morning where Minister of State, Kathleen Lynch launched 'Leading the Change for Women's Equality' the new NWCI Strategic Plan (2013-2015). The morning seminar on women's equality brought together two other outstanding women, Dr Rhona Mahony, Master of the National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street, a role model for women in leadership and Ceri Goddard, CEO of the Fawcett Society, national women's organisation, leading the campaign for women's equality in the UK. They had been invited to inspire the 160 members of the NWCI at their Annual AGM.
Echoing these comments Ceri Goddard said 'Greater gender equality must be seen as a key ingredient, not the icing on the cake in building a healthier society and sustainable economy, a goal not a burden in these straitened financial times'
To date the role of NWCI in strengthening Ireland's democracy, society, economy and culture has been important. But going forward in these unprecedented times it will be indispensable' she added.
Launching the Report Minister Of State Kathleen Lynch said 'I believe that the new Strategy will serve the NWCI well as they build on their successes over the past forty years and look to the future. I would like to think that the NWCI will continue play an important role in bringing the women of Ireland to the centre of policy making and decision-making so that we can address those gaps in relation to power, politics and influence and let our country go forward with gender balanced, gender sensitive decision-making.'
While progress in the past 40 years has been slow, in recent times there has been more cause for optimism, said O'Connor. 'Quotas for encouraging more women into political leadership are very welcome, as are the changes signalled by our Constitution Convention on changing the place of women in Irish society, the progress towards marriage equality and the first piece legislation on abortion in Ireland, give cause for optimism.'
'The NWCI is particularly heartened by resurgence of an interest in feminism – Our membership is growing and many young women – and men – have joined in the NWCI's youth Initiative - the Y Factor project which is empowering and supporting young people to become leaders for women's equality. If we want Ireland to be a different place for women - and men - in the next 40 years we must all take a proactive role in these challenging times to ensure that the attainment of women's rights and equality is at the centre of change in our society'
'Approximately 14,000 women pass through the National maternity Hospital every year. I am constantly inspired by women's strength and courage in the face of all kinds of challenge. I am equally impressed by the diversity of women's role in society. This diversity needs to be celebrated and supported' stated Dr. Rhona Mahony.
Concluding Orla O'Connor said 'If you are a person who values the concept of a caring society, believes in a woman's right to health and bodily integrity, wants representation of the diversity of women across decision making structures and believes in the economic independence of women please think of joining with us on this exciting journey.'
Leading the Change for Women's Equality - NWCI Strategic Report 2013 - 2015 - Summary
At today's event NWCI also launched its Annual Report and its 40th Anniversary Video