IMPACT’s innovative INSPIRE training programme got underway at a special event in Dublin earlier this month. The programme, which prepares and encourages women in IMPACT to run for election to branch, divisional and national committees, attracted some 40 activists from across Ireland.

The union developed the training in response to the relatively low participation of women in the union’s local and national committees. While 75% of IMPACT members are female, women account for just 22% of members of the union’s central executive committee. Women make up a similar proportion of industrial staff, while only one of the union’s eight most senior staff members is female.

There is a mixed picture on IMPACT’s divisional executive committees, where female participation ranges from 5% to 70%. At local level, women currently fill almost 50% of branch chair, secretary and treasurer posts across the country.

The INSPIRE training day was addressed by Congress general secretary Patricia King, who shared her own experiences and emphasised the importance of hard work and treating people with respect. IMPACT vice president Margaret Coughlan also spoke to delegates.

Training presentations were delivered by Hannah Deasy and Una Power from Women for Election, Dr Shirley Graham, and communications specialist Orlaith Carmody.

IMPACT lead organisers Linda Kelly and Julie Healy said the training programme was an empowering and energising experience for everyone involved.

Linda added: “There’s never been a training event like this in the history of IMPACT. Three-quarters of the union’s members are women and, while we have seen some growth in female participation, we need to encourage more women to get involved and give them the necessary tools to do so.”

In IMPACT’s latest guest blog, Una Power of Women for Election writes about the INSPIRE training workshop.

See our infographic on female participation in IMPACT.