Joanna Byrne (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Gender balance is important in all walks of life but especially in any organisation that leads our society. I am a firm believer in national and local politics being reflective of the times we live in and am proud to speak on my first International Women's Day as a TD for Sinn Féin, a party that champions real change and prides itself on elevating women. I am lucky to be surrounded by capable and committed women on the Sinn Féin benches, none more so than our formidable party leader, Mary Lou McDonald.

When we as community leaders inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world. When women are inspired to be included, there is a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment. I have always been passionate about breaking down barriers for young women. My commitment to this is probably what led me to being an unintended politician. I have been fortunate to have a platform to voice these causes through community activism, many years on Louth County Council and, hopefully, my work in this House.

While International Women's Day tends to focus on women, understandably, it is important to note the role men play daily in breaking down barriers, working towards gender equality and helping to break bias, stereotypes and discrimination. While much has been done, there is much more to do. The "Accelerate Action" theme of this year's International Women's Day is more important than ever.

In my downtime and when not wearing my political hat, I take great pride in being the first female chairperson of a League of Ireland club throughout the history of all 20 clubs in the country. I am also the youngest chairperson. It was an honour for me to be appointed chair of Drogheda United Football Club, the club I love so dear, in November 2022. Anyone who knows me knows I wear my colours with deep pride and am very proud of the club for being so progressive in appointing a female leader and making history in doing so. If me being in this role helps break down barriers for women in a male-dominated world, I have no doubt it will in time pave the way for further opportunities for like-minded women throughout the League of Ireland.

While my late grandad fuelled my passion on the pitch and my involvement with the Drogs, one person has been my greatest inspiration in everything I have done and continue to do. That is my mam, Martina. She is a survivor. She is strong, brave and resilient. She is my driving force every day. She is my mam, dad, best friend and mentor, and I would not have achieved anything I have in my life without her. I dedicate this to her today.

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