Press Notice
For Immediate Release

28 November

Gender balance in the Dáil going in the right direction, but very slowly

“This has been a historic election for women. More women will walk through the gates of Leinster House than after any other election” said Brian Sheehan, CEO of Women for Election.

“Three women led their parties in this election and across the country many women have topped or come near the top of the poll in their constituencies. From our estimates, women candidates have secured almost 32% of first preferences votes, equivalent to 70 quotas.”

39 women have been elected as of Monday morning, with the final total expected to be 44 women TDs – 25% of all TDs. This is a net gain of 7 women TDs compared to the outgoing Dáil, and a small percentage increase up from 23% in the outgoing Dáil.

“The gender quota for political parties introduced to ensure parties select more women candidates has wedged the door open, but its potential has not yet been fully realised.”

“We are going in the right direction, but far too slowly. With a record number of women running, we could have expected to see more women to be elected. If we are serious about achieving equal representation for women in political life, further work is necessary. We need to look at structural barriers and need a detailed review of how the quota has operated in this election, including how party selection processes, including timing and access to nominations, have helped or hindered women candidates,”, concluded Sheehan.

ENDS

Editors Note Results tracker on the website – www.womenforelection.ie/geoutcomes