The Department of Justice has reported to the United Nations that there are too few women in politics and other decision-making roles in Ireland.

In a gender equality report submitted to the UN’s Economic Commission for Europe, violence against women is described as a “persistent challenge” in Ireland.

The document also points to “gender segregation” in both education and the work force, “which may be impacting on the advancement of women into decision-making roles and on closing the gender pay gap”.

In the halls of Leinster House, Constance Markievicz cuts a lonely figure as the only portrait of a female parliamentarian in the entire building.

When I pass her portrait, I often think this trailblazing woman would be horrified that the party she helped establish doesn’t have a single female TD today.

Electoral research shows once women get on the ballot paper they have the same chance of getting elected as their male counterparts.

Fianna Fáil has conceded it is “disappointed” with the proportion of female candidates it is running in the local and European elections in May.

Irish society continues to treat women as second-class citizens, according to a report dedicated to creating a more women-friendly Oireachtas.

POLITICAL PARTIES HAVE been busy over recent weeks and months making selections for the upcoming local elections.

Research from Women for Election shows that of the 1278 selections made already by political parties, just 24 per cent are women.

Not all selections have been made, but to date, the majority of the large political parties are seriously lagging behind in achieving gender balance for their local candidates.

THE Seanad chamber is always a handy place for a parliamentary photo shoot. For a start, it's a beautiful room, all corniced high ceilings, sparkly chandeliers and plush blue leather seats.

Secondly, it's as under-used as a copy of Mao's 'Little Red Book' would be at a Reform Alliance monster meeting.

We invite you to read the full article published January 29, 2014