‘Women are the backbone of the community’

Cllr Patricia Walsh

On the occasion of International Women's Day, Cllr Patricia Walsh, the longest serving female representative on the local authority, has reflected on the important contribution women make to political and community life.

Even though she has been involved in politics since 1993 and has seen positive change over the years, she still sees a lack of female representation: “There are only four female councillors (out of 18) in Cavan County Council,” Patricia Walsh says amazed.

She believes more women are needed in public life because “women have a lot to bring to the table". She points out that many women already manage households, budgets and busy family schedules. “It’s like running a small business,” she explains, adding that women are often highly organised and closely connected to everyday community concerns.

Cllr Walsh describes women as “the backbone of the community”, balancing family responsibilities while supporting local sports clubs, fundraising initiatives and social organisations.

A lifelong community activist herself, the Fianna Fáil woman says family always came first, yet serving people remained her passion. “I love what I do,” she says. “I have given years of my life to the county and the community.”

She welcomes the growth of women’s business networks, hoping they will encourage more women regardless of political party to enter politics or entrepreneurship. Marking International Women’s Day, Cllr Walsh wishes continued confidence and empowerment for women pursuing leadership roles in every sector.