WOMEN TOO HAVE PRIDE!
SURPRISE AT SO FEW WOMEN WINNING CIVIC AWARDS
ALL the recipients of 2018 Drogheda Mayoral Civic awards were undoubtedly worthy winners; however surprise was expressed by a number of people present on this night that so few women were honoured.
Out of 16 awards, only one woman was present to accept an award; Sr Anne Brady on behalf of the Sisters of Mercy, with no individual awards for the contribution made by women in the community.
Just one woman received an individual award in last year’s ceremony, a marked change from previous years.
‘I agree there should have been more women, and maybe that’s something we need to look at in the future,’ commented Mayor Pio Smith after the awards.
‘For me, they should be evolving, and maybe we should look at having more categories, and being able to address a gender imbalance.’
The awards are nominated by the local councillors, and in previous years, individual awards have been given to at least four or five women per event.
‘I didn’t notice to be honest, but now you mention it, I am very surprised,’ said Deputy Imelda Munster, who was present at the ceremony.
‘Everyone who got an award deserved it, but women are so much at the heart of the community in Drogheda and every Irish town, it is something that would need to be looked at for next year.’
A previous recipient of a Civic Award, who said she would prefer not to be identified, said she was disappointed with the lack of female nominees or winners for the past two years.
‘It was one of the proudest moments of my life, and it really does mean so much to be regonised by your peers, she told the Drogheda Independent.
‘I know each of the groups honoured has women involved, however there are so many women who do amazing work for the community, it would be lovely to see them aknowledged, and well as all the diverse communuties in Drogheda.’
Previous winners have included Karen Devine, Carrie Cowan, Catrina Culligan, Mary Reynolds, Nuala Early, Isobel San Roma and Ann McVeigh, to name but a few.