International Women’s Day 2026 | Give to Gain
International Women’s Day invites us to celebrate progress and to recognise the growing momentum for equality across our region. It is a moment to acknowledge achievements, share optimism, and look ahead with confidence.
This year’s theme, Give to Gain, resonates strongly across the Southern Region. From Clare and Kerry to Tipperary, Cork, Wexford and all cities, towns and villages in between, we see every day how supporting women and girls strengthens families, communities, workplaces and local economies. When we lift each other up, everyone benefits and the whole region moves forward.
As an Assembly committed to strengthening the Southern Region, we know that equality and inclusion are essential foundations for sustainable regional development and thriving communities.
As female members of this Assembly, we witness the impact that opportunity and inclusion can have. Across our region, women are driving innovation in business, caring for families, contributing to local voluntary groups, safeguarding our natural environment, contributing to vibrant culture, and enriching community life. Their energy and commitment are helping shape the future.
Cllr Peggy Ryan, Leas Cathaoirleach of Southern Regional Assembly and Tipperary Councillor, says,
“For too long, the same kinds of voices have been to the fore dominating discourse and decision-making. We need Women in Leadership to bring their vision, nuance, empathy and progress. I encourage each woman to take her seat at the table, change cannot happen unless our voices are heard”.
Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, Clare County Council and Committee of the Regions Representative, says,
“Women in public life are not here to be pleasing, we are here to lead, to question, and to deliver for our communities. We do not need to smile to be heard; we need our voices respected.
On this International Women’s Day, I’m thinking of the women across County Clare, Ireland, and Europe who serve their communities every day, in council chambers, classrooms, hospitals, businesses, farms, and homes. Progress has been made, but true equality means recognising women for their leadership, insight and the positive change they bring to their communities. As a public representative, I am proud to stand with women and girls who are shaping a more equal, fair, and inclusive future.”
Giving to women and girls means ensuring access to quality education and training, fair and secure employment, safe and welcoming public spaces, responsive health services, and meaningful opportunities to lead and influence decisions. These supports help build stronger communities and a more resilient, sustainable future for everyone. By supporting women and girls today, we strengthen the foundations for a more resilient and sustainable region for future generations.
Cllr Deirdre Kelly, Cork County Council and Assembly Member, says
“At its heart “give to gain” means that by giving in the first instance, whether that’s by offering time, help, value or kindness, we create the conditions to receive something meaningful in return. In that regard, investing in women’s leadership doesn’t just empower individuals, it strengthens entire communities. By giving women greater opportunities to lead, we gain more inclusive decision making, broader perspectives and stronger outcomes for our communities.”
Cllr Norma Moriarty, Kerry County Council and Assembly Member, says
“When we open doors for women and girls, we unlock potential that strengthens every part of our region. Supporting opportunity at every stage of life helps build confident communities and a brighter future for all.”
We also recognise that progress is not experienced equally and that not every woman’s experience is the same. Women living in rural communities, women caring for children or older relatives, women from migrant backgrounds, and women facing economic disadvantage often encounter barriers that require sustained and targeted action. Recognising these differences helps us create solutions that include everyone.
Cllr Kay Dawson, Cork County Council and Assembly Member, says,
“True progress begins with recognising that not all women experience opportunity in the same way. Real equality means valuing all the ways women from all types backgrounds and roles contribute to the strength and wellbeing of our communities, making sure they have the resources and opportunities to grow their impact.”
Cllr Máirín McGrath, Tipperary County Council and Assembly Member, says,
“The women who quietly lead, organise and support our community groups are the backbone of local life. Real equality means recognising their work, listening to their experiences, and ensuring they are supported and empowered in every space.”
This International Women’s Day, we renew our commitment to giving what is needed so that, together, we can gain what truly matters: equality, dignity, opportunity and safety for women and girls throughout the Southern Region. These values also reflect the broader European commitment to equality, inclusion and regional cohesion.
Cllr Sheila Callaghan, Cork County Council and Assembly Member, says
“When women are supported and recognised it has a positive knock on effect across local communities and the wider society”.
Cllr Gillian Coughlan, Cork County Council and Committee of the Regions representative, says,
“When women are encouraged to lead and contribute, our region becomes more vibrant, innovative and united. By working together, we can build a more inclusive future that reflects the best of our communities and our European values.”
We invite everyone across our communities to reflect on what Give to Gain means in everyday life and to consider how we can each contribute to building a fairer and more inclusive region. Progress is a shared effort among residents, organisations, employers, educators and families.
Cllr Brídín Murphy, Wexford County Council and Committee of the Regions representative, says,
“Give to Gain reminds us that supporting one another strengthens families, communities and local economies. Empowering women and girls builds resilience and opportunity across the region, helping to create a place where everyone has a chance to thrive”.
Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy, Wexford County Council and Assembly Member, says,
“I ask you to please give your support to increase the number of women in elected politics to gain a fairer more inclusive, just and equitable society. Research indicates that when more women are in positions of power, it leads to better, more inclusive, and more equitable decision-making, which in turn fosters a stronger and more vibrant democracy.”
Signed,
Cllr Peggy Ryan, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, Cllr Gillian Coughlan, Cllr Deirdre Kelly, Cllr Kay Dawson, Cllr, Shelia O’Callaghan, Cllr Norma Moriarty, Cllr Mairin McGrath, Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy and Cllr Brídín Murphy
The Female Members of the Southern Regional Assembly
International Women’s Day 2026
