We need the right women in politics, not just more of them

Reshuffles are often just cosmetic exercises, we need politicians of principle and action to effect meaningful policy changes, writes Elaine Byrne.

There is a crisis in the delivery of frontline services to the most at risk women in the Irish state.

The Taoiseach’s decision not to appoint any women to the nine minister of state spots has drawn predictable criticism.

The women of Fine Gael are apparently “miffed,” Labour is “concerned”, while the National Women’s Council is “disappointed”.

The Taoiseach, the commentariat surmises, is a hypocrite. Is the Mayo man really committed to gender quota legislation that requires 30 per cent female candidates at the next general election? If that quota is not met, ...