Tipperary County Council is to receive €13,000 out of a national allocation of €192,650 under a scheme aimed at improving the number of women on Local Authorities.
The scheme, which offers support to local authorities for projects which encourage the participation of women and diverse groups at local government level, is now in its sixth year. A record 681 female candidates stood in the June local elections, representing an almost 18% increase on the previous elections in 2019, while the number of migrant candidates participating almost doubled. Minister Alan Dillon says he wants to see major shifts in the makeup of local council chambers, making them more reflective of modern Ireland.
A variety of projects have been selected for support under the scheme being announced today, including social media training for councillors, International Women’s Day events, information sessions for TY students and funding for local level women’s caucuses. County Tipperary now has 12 female councillors out of a total of 40 posts – giving women a 30% participation rate however the female population of the county is just over 50%.
In addition to this scheme funding is also offered to support NGOs who carry out essential training and research in the area, as well as to political parties and independent groups for projects which encourage participation at party level.
Allocations under a funding scheme aimed at facilitating hybrid council meetings, to allow for greater flexibility for those with caring responsibilities, will be announced later this year.
