The Minister of State for Equality, Integration and Human Rights, Ms. Mary White T.D., today (30 June) opened an exhibition in the Davenport Hotel, Dublin on behalf of the Older Women's Network (OWN).
The exhibition displays the work undertaken by older women who wish to enter or re-enter the workforce. Exhibits include topics such as public speaking, writing skills and confidence building. This OWN project was part funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and by the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs under the Equality for Women Measure. This Measure makes funding available to support women who are preparing to return to work, or to mainstream education and training.
Minister White stated:
“Increasing the proportion of women in the labour market has been shown to be one of the best ways to improve gender equality. Older women with their knowledge, experience and skills have much to contribute to the labour market and accordingly to the economic well-being of the country. Indeed statistics show us that the number of older women at work continues to increase, having more than doubled over the past ten years. We know that this increase has contributed very positively to economic growth”.
Minister White reiterated that fostering gender equality in Irish society remains an important element of the Government's work programme.