Business provides a pathway for positive self-expression

THROUGH the medium of business, women discover the confidence and space to make positive changes in the community, workplace, in recreation and in the home. The business environment has created a more holistic method of self-expression that produces a natural equality based on one’s own ability.

But it would be simplistic to suggest there’s a one size fits all aspect to opportunity between genders. Issues of discrimination are in constant need of redress - particularly the latent kind that occurs without the person consciously being aware of discriminatory acts. The aim of the National Women’s Strategy envisages a climate where all women enjoy equality with men and achieve their full potential, while also enjoying a safe and fulfilling life.

Such an ambition has an air of disbelief given that we live in the 21st century, but old prejudices don’t dissolve as quickly as one might expect. Achieving this vision sees a number of strategies grouped under three key themes: equalising socio-economic opportunity for women, ensuring the well-being of women, and engaging women as equal and active citizens.

In a 2017 study it found that, on average, men are estimated to earn €12,000 more than women. The figures were calculated based on average salary and bonus and when these two are split, the average salary gap was 16 percent, while the bonus gap goes up as high as 50 percent.

Pay is just one aspect of inequality, however. There’s many more cases that occur along the lines of personal discrimination, such as maternity leave, etc. Knowing there are statutory entitlements to the latter doesn’t necessarily prevent ‘constructive discrimination’ surrounding such issues. But it’s also worth noting that in many cases the responsibility for minimising gender inequality rests with both men and woman.