Women continue to be significantly underrepresented on Monaghan County Council, securing only 3 out of 18 seats, just 17% of the total representation. Of the 36 candidates in the 2024 local elections, 8 were women running against 28 men, reflecting one of the lowest proportions of female representation across the island. Notably, there are currently no female representatives in the Carrickmacross-Castleblayney Local Electoral Area.
The National Women's Council, in collaboration with the Monaghan Women's Assembly and Monaghan County Council, is hosting a regional seminar entitled "Women Beyond the Dáil: Access, Representation and Retention in Irish Local Government" on Monday from 10:45 am to 12:30 pm at Monaghan County Council, Council Chambers in Mtek 1.
Cllr Sinéad Flynn is Chairperson of the Monaghan Women's Assembly. Speaking to Northern Sound, Cllr Flynn said; "Women’s voices must be heard at every level of government, from council chambers to the Dáil. Representation isn’t just about numbers—it’s about shaping policies that reflect the realities of all communities. To achieve real change, we need to break down barriers, support women in politics, and ensure that leadership is truly inclusive."
