Women still must jump too many hurdles to win in politics

Published: Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Opinion piece from Breda O'Brien in The Irish Times, Saturday 12th February

"Political parties have a big influence on how many women's names appear on ballot papers.

'FIANNA FÁIL? I would rather stick pins in my eyes. You are a load of gangsters." Not unsurprisingly, this colourful quote provided the headline for a recent article about Mary Hanafin's canvassing efforts.

It was said by a woman to a woman politician, and aside from its memorable imagery, it illustrates just how difficult it is to be a politician today, whether you are male or female. Contrary to feminist propaganda, the constituent did not see another woman, with whom she would have sisterly solidarity; she saw a representative of a party she despised.

Politicians in general are regarded with such disdain today that it requires a very high degree of personal confidence, and perhaps hard neck, to present oneself for election. Given the relative paucity of role models, it is not surprising that few are panting to get involved in politics.

There are all sorts of additional hurdles for women, not least because of how candidates are selected, which in some parties routinely involves back-stabbing and blood on the floor..."

Clicke here to read the full article on the Irish Times website