The DLR Women’s Committee was established as a formal committee of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council in 2025, with the first Committee meeting held in County Hall on 28 May 2025.
The vision of DLR Women’s Committee is to empower elected women in local government by enhancing visibility, leadership, and participation through networking, training, advocacy, and community engagement. Committed to gender equality, it fosters a supportive environment and drives meaningful change for lasting impact.
During its first year, the Committee welcomed a range of guest speakers who addressed Members on topics including women's participation in sport, gender equality, and updates on the provision of a domestic violence refuge in the County.
The Committee's first year concluded with the DLR Women’s Leadership Awards in May 2026, recognising four local women who have made a significant contribution in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown through their leadership, community involvement, and commitment to improving the lives of others.
At its meeting on 22 September 2026, Councillor Lettie McCarthy was elected Chairperson of the Committee for the upcoming year, with Councillor Jacqueline Burke elected as Vice-Chair.
DLR Women’s Committee Year 2 Workplan
The second year will focus on building on the foundations already established, identifying training needs for women Councillors, and strengthening outreach with community groups.
Key priorities include:
Leadership & Governance
Implement the annual rotation of officer roles and review the need for a Public Relations Officer (PRO) position to support the committee's work.
Communications & Visibility
Enhance the committee's profile through increased communications activity and an expanded social media presence.
Training & Development
Identify members' training needs and deliver a minimum of two training and development sessions during the year.
Community Outreach
Organise at least two engagements with women and girls in the local community to encourage participation and dialogue.
International Women’s Day
Host a public event to celebrate International Women’s Day and highlight issues of importance to women in the community.
Policy Development
Develop and submit two consensus-based policy motions for consideration by the Council.
Gender Equality Review
Conduct a gender audit of DLR staff and decision-making structures and develop actions to promote greater equality, diversity and inclusion.
Women in Local Government
Invite former women councillors to share their experiences and insights on serving in local government.
Annual Report
Prepare a report summarising the committee's activities, achievements, challenges and priorities for the year ahead.
The committee can be contacted at womenscommittee@dlrcoco.ie or you can contact any of the members individually.
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