Let’s discuss feminism, even if it annoys people

Published: Sunday, November 13, 2011

It was an interesting week for Irish feminism. Our strongest female role model exited public life; a well-known female journalist was on the telly saying that women who give up their careers after having children are a drain on society; and a feeble effort to get a little bit of sisterhood going in the Dail was hijacked in a publicity bid by a female TD.

Being a feminist myself -- there I've said it and I can't take it back now -- I find it a positive thing that at least there is some discussion going on, as opposed to the usual grim acceptance that the place of women in Irish society is a boring topic not worth wasting breath or ink on.

Having a female president for the past two decades has given a false impression of a more equal society, masking the pathetic representation of females in Leinster House and at the top level of industry and public life. Despite this Mary McAleese was a marvellous example of a strong, intelligent woman who did the sisterhood proud. I'd like, though, to have heard more from her on the subject of Irish women, motherhood and careers.

Click here to read the full Independent article.....