The problem with our ‘lovely girls’ contest

If the Rose of Tralee truly is a ‘celebration of Irish women’, then it should afford women a voice, not just a tiara

Rose of Tralee Jennifer Byrne is a junior doctor: most of her peers are women, but her chances of becoming a consultant are lower than her male classmates

Leo Varadkar’s partner is a junior doctor. Matt Barrett is invariably described as ambitious, competent and motivated. The Taoiseach has described Matt’s intellect as “intimidating” and is gushing in his admiration: “He is very, very intelligent. He can read faster than me. He can do calculations faster than me. He is very bright. He is a Gaeilgeoir as well.”

The Rose of Tralee is also a junior doctor. Like Matt, she saves lives. ...