Dublin Bus calls for more Dublin mná

Dublin Bus has released research shedding light on the sentiments of women in the workforce, revealing persistent gender roles and stereotypes.

The research marks the initiation of the Dublin Bus ‘More Mná’ recruitment drive, aimed at further increasing the number of female drivers, building upon the success of previous initiatives. Since the female-focused recruitment drive in 2019, the number of female drivers has almost doubled (97% increase by January 2024 compared to August 2019). Open Days are scheduled to run from March to May 2024, offering comprehensive information and registration at dublinbus.ie.

According to the latest findings, despite progress, gender stereotypes continue to influence women’s career choices, with 25% of Irish women admitting they have refrained from applying for jobs in the past due to perceptions of certain roles as traditionally ‘man’s jobs’. However, perceptions are evolving, as evidenced by the survey revealing a changing attitude towards the role of a Dublin Bus driver. Nearly half (49%) of respondents acknowledge a diminishing perception of driving a Dublin Bus as solely a ‘man’s job’, reflecting a shifting landscape in gender perceptions.

In a nod to inspirational figures, boxing champion Katie Taylor emerged as the top choice, inspiring 37% of respondents. Dr. Katriona O’Sullivan, Academic, Activist, and Bestselling Author of ‘Poor’, and Sonya Lennon, Designer and Founder of WorkEqual, shared second place with 14% each.

Career priorities for women reflect a demand for competitive salary (28%), flexibility (27%), and benefits such as health insurance and pension (13%). The Dublin Bus driver role meets these expectations with its competitive salary, pension scheme, training and mentoring opportunities, paid maternity leave, and additional perks including access to a gym, GP scheme, employee assistance scheme, and education support for tertiary studies. Earlier this year, Dublin Bus announced a significant milestone in its journey towards equality, diversity, and inclusion with the release of its 2023 Gender Pay Gap Report, revealing a negative pay gap in favor of women.

Vivienne Kavanagh, Dublin Bus Talent Development and Diversity Manager, expressed pride in achieving the previous goal of doubling the number of female drivers and emphasized the commitment to furthering this progress. Kavanagh encouraged women to explore career opportunities at Dublin Bus, stressing the company’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for all employees.

With a quarter (25%) of women expressing interest in driving a Dublin Bus and even higher enthusiasm (32%) within Dublin itself, the upcoming Open Days present an ideal opportunity to explore career possibilities. Attendees will engage with current female drivers and inspectors, receive firsthand insights into working at Dublin Bus, participate in driving exercises with professional instructors, tour Dublin Bus’ Central Control Centre, and gain insight into the recruitment process and company benefits.