Grace Boland (Dublin Fingal West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

670. To ask the Minister for Finance the means by which the delivery of the “Women in Finance” initiative will be delivered; if there is a timeframe for the delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41947/25]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Women in Finance Charter is already being delivered. The Charter was launched in April 2022 as part of the Ireland for Finance strategy, establishing a three-year pilot to run until July 2025.

The Charter is led by industry and supported by government. Industry representative bodies play a key role, including Financial Services Ireland, Banking and Payments Federation Ireland, Insurance Ireland and Irish Funds. Department of Finance, Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and enterprise agencies provide the Government support.

The implementation and governance of the Charter is overseen by a steering group, which provides advice, guidance and direction on the work of the Charter. The steering group is comprised of officials from the Department of Finance, Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, industry professionals and representatives of the trade associations.

As of July 2025, there are currently 104 signatory firms employing 72,000, representing over half of all employees in the sector.

The 3rd annual report was published on 17th July 2025. The report showcasing that signatory firms have made significant progress in reaching their targets. Compared to baseline, average female representation has increased by 13.1 percentage points at board level, 3.7 at executive committee level and 7.2 at senior management level. The proportion of female CEOs has increased to 22.6 %.

I and Minister of State Troy will liaise with industry stakeholders to consider how the public and private sector can work together to support the operation of the Women in Finance Charter in the future.