Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

International Women's Day, celebrated annually on 8 March, serves as a powerful reminder of the strides women have made in various fields, be it politics, science, arts or social justice. It is a day to honour the trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings, the activists who fought for equality, and the everyday heroes who uplift their communities. Yet, against this backdrop, the Government's decision to tinker with our Constitution feels like a hollow gesture, one that lacks substance and genuine commitment to women's rights. The proposed constitutional changes are symbolic, but symbolism alone will not address the pressing issues faced by women.

While the Government spends millions on referendums, ordinary citizens grapple with the rising cost of living, housing shortages and inadequate healthcare. These are not abstract problems. They affect real people - mothers, daughters and sisters - who navigate life's challenges while the political machinery churns. Let us talk about the unsung heroes, like the caregivers, who are predominantly women. They shoulder the immense responsibility of caring for loved ones, whether children, elderly parents or family members with disabilities. Their tireless dedication goes beyond mere duty. It is a labour of love and a sacrifice, yet these caregivers find themselves subject to means testing when it comes to the carer's allowance. That is not a favour they are doing. It is a vital job that saves the State. It is an incredible thing that two days before Mother's Day, on International Women's Day, the Government wants to remove the word "woman" from the Constitution.

See this speech in context