“That this Strategic Policy Committee prepares for the 2029 Local Elections by engaging with "Women for Election", "See Her Elected" or a similiar organisation to design and deliver a tailored training programme for women who wish to run in the 2029 Elections. Dun-Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council ran a campaign for the 2024 local elections in collaboration with Women for Election. We could use this as a model if we wish.”

The motion in the name of Councillor A. Donnelly was PROPOSED by Councillor A. Donnelly and SECONDED by Councillor J. Walsh.

“That this Strategic Policy Committee prepares for the 2029 Local Elections by engaging with "Women for Election", "See Her Elected" or a similar organisation to design and deliver a tailored training programme for women who wish to run in the 2029 Elections. Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council ran a campaign for the 2024 local elections in collaboration with Women for Election. We could use this as a model if we wish.”

Report:??

The Council has secured funding to develop an appropriate programme under the category: ‘Increase Diversity & Participation of Women in Local Government’. Initial engagement has already taken place with Women for Election to explore potential approaches and what such an initiative might involve. This work is being progressed as a joint endeavour between the Corporate and Community directorates, and it is expected that it will get underway shortly in collaboration with Women for Election.

While it is anticipated that this initiative may evolve in the direction of a tailored training programme or campaign aimed at women who may wish to run in the 2029 Local Elections, it would be premature at this stage to define the precise scope or format of the programme. Further development work will be required before any final proposals are brought forward”

Following discussion, the report was ACCEPTED.