“While considerable progress had been made in advancing the role of women in Ireland, particularly through a strong body of equality legislation, there is still a need to take proactive action in some areas. I have been asked by Government to bring forward proposals for a National Women’s Strategy, linking the future actions all Government Departments. The Strategy will, when complete, be a far reaching document and I look forward to publishing it later this year. “

- Michael McDowell hosted a breakfast in the National Gallery to celebrate International Women’s Day this morning.

The Minister welcomed the discussion taking place in New York on the advancement of women in decision making. He noted that this is one of a number of aspects of Irish life where the participation of women could be and should be better. The Minister also identified representative politics and science and technology as sectors in which he would particularly welcome the greater advancement of women.

I assume McDowell takes responsibility for this now in a more general portfolio, but in the last government, Willie O'Dea was Minister for Women.