Two weeks have passed since the wonderful Women’s Space to Speak conference, and what a fortnight it’s been, with so much discussion and debate online, as well as lots of very positive media coverage of the event.
The Irish Women’s Lobby was delighted to be involved and looks forward to many similar gatherings in the future.
It is very heartening to witness the energy from groups, new and old – and the resurgence of interest all over the country in the rights of women and girls.
The Irish Women’s Lobby is being re-launched and we will keep you abreast of developments as we progress. We will update the website and we intend to send out a newsletter every two weeks – sign up here. We know it’s difficult to keep up with what’s going on in all areas that affect women’s lives and it’s our intention to make it easier for everyone by giving an overview, as well as template letters and suggested actions when legislation or policies are in conflict with our interests. We also want to help women network and form their own groups all over the country. If you’re interested in meeting like-minded women in your area get in touch with us. It’s great to have the support and resources of the national organisation, but the grassroots is where the real strength lies.
The pressing issue right now is the hate speech amendment. In the links below you can read more.
Fears that hate-speech law may target ‘gender-critical’ views
First up is the excellent coverage by the Law Society Gazette which confirms what we have all feared – that the proposed amendments to hate speech laws pose a serious threat to those speaking up for the rights of women and girls. Please share this article widely, particularly with your TDs and relevant ministers.
Next, we have Helen Joyce’s review of the event, along with an abridged version of her own presentation.
(The article can also be accessed directly through Helen’s website here: www.thehelenjoyce.com)
Women Have the Right to Reject Men’s Convictions
Next is Christina Ellingsen’s presentation. Christina is facing up to 3 years in prison in Norway for saying men cannot be women or lesbians. Could that happen in Ireland? It could if the amendments go through unchallenged.
Paddy O’Gorman
Veteran broadcaster Paddy O’Gorman attended and subsequently supported the event on his Twitter account which you can follow here https://twitter.com/paddyjogorman
Prior to the event, Paddy produced an excellent podcast about Limerick Prison. Particularly compelling listening was his interview with Lianne, former inmate, who had some hard-hitting home truths about cohabiting with men in the female wing. Catch it here.
Cathal Mac Coille
Former Morning Ireland presenter Cathal Mac Coille tweeted throughout the week about the conference and great to see his support as Gaeilge on news site Tuairisc Nuacht (The article is also available in English on the website)
Finally, the event was also covered in a shorter piece by The Sunday Times.
Self-ID activists ‘will abuse hate speech law’ | Ireland | The Sunday Times