Want to learn more about Donegal women's impact in public life? Then don't miss this gathering.

A special event will be held in Donegal County Museum on 13th June reflecting on the role of women in local government over the past 120 years.

After the 2019 Local Elections, the event will look at the past, present and future of women in politics. Former MEP Marian Harkin, Donegal’s newly-elected female councillors, historians and women’s rights campaigners will be in attendance at the free public gathering.

120 years ago, on 6 April 1899, Ireland has its first elections to county and rural district councils.

The enactment of the Local Government (Ireland) Act 1898, meant for the first time, women could stand for election and vote. Women in many constituencies have contributed to local policy and decision making and played their part in the communities we live in now.

It is timely to reflect on what remains to be achieved to ensure the voices of women are heard in decision making and their participation supported and resourced at local level.

Post Local Elections 2019, the event will focus on female representation at local level and celebrate new voices for change.

Marian Harkin (Former MEP) will chair the event

Marian Harkin

Confirmed speakers include:

• Orla O Connor(Director of National Women’s Council Of Ireland)

• Sinead McCoole (Curator of the Pop Up Women’s Museum, Commemorations Unit, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht)

• Dr Angela Byrne(University Ulster Historian specialising in migration and women’s history, University Ulster)

There will be a panel of newly elected female councillors with Donegal Women’s Network and 5050 North West discussing what comes next for women in public life.

Light refreshments will be available.

This is a free event but booking is required either through Eventbrite or calling Donegal County Museum on 0749124613.

This event is being supported by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

A ‘Pop Up Women’s Museum – 100 years of Women in Politics and Public Life 1918-2018’ is running in the museum and is supported by the Department of Culture, Heritage and Gaeltacht.

Book your place at ‘Celebrating Donegal Women and 120 years of Local Government’ here on Eventbrite.

Shining a spotlight on 100 years of trailblazing women