Wexford Women Together Launches New Strategy to Empower Women in Politics

Wexford Women Together formerly known as the Women's Coalition was officially launched at a special event held in Wexford County Council’s Carricklawn offices. The occasion marked a historic milestone with the election of eight female members to Wexford County Council, highlighting the significant progress in female political representation in the county. The new initiative is dedicated to empowering and inspiring women across Wexford to take a more active role in community life. Through a new strategy and action plan, Wexford Women Together aims to increase women’s involvement in local activism, civic engagement, and most notably, politics—starting at the local government level. The ultimate goal is to see more women on the ballot and in elected positions within Wexford’s local government. Wexford Women Together’s mission is clear: to increase female representation in Wexford County Council and other civic roles. Their efforts will support initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity, encouraging women of all backgrounds to participate in the political process. The group’s chairperson, Councillor Barbara Anne Murphy, shared the importance of women stepping forward and making their voices heard in politics. "The reality is that we need more women to get involved – to put themselves forward,” she said. “If that is not you, perhaps you know someone who should be preparing to run in the local elections in 2029. Your suggestion may take root and come to fruition." Wexford Women Together is focused on fostering a supportive environment for female candidates, providing resources and training opportunities to help women get elected. The group’s vision includes doubling the number of female councillors in Wexford County Council, moving towards gender parity. "In 1928 there was one, in 1978 there were two, in 2004 there were four, and now in 2025 there are eight women serving on Wexford County Council," Councillor Murphy noted. "If we can double that, we are 16—just one short of half. That is where we need to get to—gender parity, and I challenge all that have an interest in this to work hard so we do achieve gender parity by the 2034 Local Elections." The newly formed group is committed to supporting women with diverse perspectives, offering a platform where members can disagree respectfully without fear of retaliation. This collaborative environment aims to build stronger relationships among women in politics, providing mutual support and helping to create a lasting impact on the political landscape in Wexford. The full membership of Wexford Women Together includes Councillors Lisa McDonald, Vicky Barron, Aoife Rose O’Brien, Barbara Anne Murphy (Chairperson), Bridin Murphy, Patricia Byrne, Catherine Walsh and Mary Farrell. Together, they are determined to make Wexford a leader in female political participation. As part of their ongoing efforts, Wexford Women Together will focus on securing further funding for training programs for prospective female candidates and continue to advocate for greater female involvement in local governance. The group’s work is already making waves and they are confident that their collective efforts will lead to lasting change. For more information about Wexford Women Together and how to get involved, please contact communications@wexfordcoco.ie (mailto:communications@wexfordcoco.ie) .