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11 Jan 2026

Call for more women to step forward to eradicate Donegal's stark gender imbalance

Donegal County Council remains the most gender-imbalanced local authority in Ireland, with just three women - Cllr Dakota Nic Mheanman, Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Cllr Beard - among 37 councillors

Call for more women to step forward as Donegal has stark gender imbalance

Dakota Nic Mheanman, Niamh Kennedy and Joy Beard were all elected in 2024

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Contributor

10 Jan 2026 11:33 AM

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news@donegallive.ie

Cllr Joy Beard has encouraged women across Donegal to consider political leadership and representation, highlighting free election training workshops run by See Her Elected as an important first step.

Donegal County Council remains the most gender-imbalanced local authority in Ireland, with just three women - Cllr Dakota Nic Mheanman, Cllr Niamh Kennedy and Cllr Beard - among 37 councillors, meaning women account for less than 10 per cent of elected representatives in the county.
Cllr Beard said the lack of female representation was not due to a lack of ability or commitment among women, but often a lack of encouragement, confidence, and practical support.

“I availed of the See Her Elected workshops myself when I was considering whether to put my name forward in the local elections, and I found them absolutely invaluable," she said.
"They helped me clarify my reasons for running, build confidence, and understand what standing for election really involves.”
See Her Elected is launching its Election Workshop Series this month, beginning on Monday, 12 January. The workshops are free, held online, and run once a month until June.
"Participants can choose from a range of session times, including evenings and daytime options, allowing women to engage at times that suit work, family, and other commitments.
The first workshop focuses on motivation, helping participants clearly articulate their “why” and begin building a strong and authentic candidate profile.
“Women’s voices are essential in decision-making, particularly at local level where policies directly affect families, communities, housing, health, and public services,” Cllr Beard added. “If you have ever thought about getting involved, even quietly or privately, these workshops are a safe and supportive way to explore that possibility.”
Women can register at any time via the See Her Elected Academy platform. Cllr Beard said increasing women’s representation was about fairness and balance.

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