New CEO of Women for Election announced

Women for Election has announced the appointment of Brian Sheehan as its new CEO.

According to Women for Election, Sheehan joins Women for Election at ‘a critical juncture in Ireland’s election cycle with local, European and general elections on the horizon.’

Alison Cowzer, Chairperson of Women for Election said:

“We are very excited that Brian has accepted the role of CEO of Women for Election at this time in our growth.

“The diversity and richness of his experience, his commitment to equal and equitable access to politics, and his passion for democratic values give me immense confidence about the future of Women for Election and the critical work ahead for us.

“Women for Election has worked with thousands of women since the last election cycles, encouraging, supporting and equipping them to enter and succeed in politics.

“We know that women face many challenges in running for elections that are different from those faced by men.

“The ‘5 C’s of confidence, childcare, cash, candidate selection and culture are key barriers that prevent women from considering running for elected office.

“Brian will continue, build on and step up our work over the next months and years to tackle those barriers and support far more women from all communities across the country to consider entering politics.”

Brian Sheehan (pictured above) said:

“Ireland remains at 101st in the world in the number of women elected to the Dáil, with just 23% of TDs being women, and 26% of our local Councillors being women.

“This unbalances our democracy and means that the crucial voices of women across Irish society are not represented in decision making at the political and legislative level.

“I am looking forward to extending the work of Women for Election and to working with all political parties and the public to ensure that in the forthcoming local, European and general elections, the candidates, and those elected, genuinely reflect Irish society.”