The story of modern Ireland cannot be told without recognising the central role of women in shaping our society, economy and national identity. I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak and mark International Women’s Day, and recognise the extraordinary contribution that women make to our families, communities and country, which they will continue to do for our future. Throughout Irish history, women have played a vital role in shaping the nation we are today. One of the most powerful examples is Countess Markievicz, a pioneer of Irish political life and founding member of Fianna Fáil in 1926, who became the first woman elected to this Parliament and is a symbol of courage, leadership and determination throughout the country. Her legacy reminds us that progress is possible when barriers are challenged and opportunities are opened up. Today, across Ireland, women continue to inspire in every walk of life. We this see this in the arts through the incredible talent of Ireland’s own Jessie Buckley whose success on the international stage has showcased Irish creativity and talent to the world. To cap it off, winning an Oscar last week was absolutely incredible. Her story of resilience is inspiring. In sport, we see it in champions like Katie Taylor, whose discipline, humility and achievements have inspired a generation of young people across Ireland. Again, another world champion. I was at a parade yesterday in Gorsebridge and the Paulstown boxing club had a float. I was absolutely blown away by the fact that the majority of the young people doing the demonstrations were female. That is a nod to the Paulstown boxing club and the great Ollie O'Neill and Darren O’Neill but also to Katie Taylor and Kellie Harrington and the women who have forged a lonely path at times to get female boxing to the Olympics. To have world champions in Ireland in boxing is incredible. We also see it in young women representing their communities with pride and confidence, such as Katelyn Cummins, a very proud Kilkenny woman. She was a Laois Rose who represented her community with pride and confidence and went on to win the Rose of Tralee and "Dancing with the Stars" last week. Her journey reflects the talent, positivity and ambition young Irish women bring to every single opportunity they might get. For me, International Women's Day has a deeply personal meaning. I am the proud father of four daughters and like every parent, I want them to grow up in a society where their opportunities are not limited by their gender, where their ambitions are encouraged and where their talents are recognised and valued. I want equality of opportunity for my children, not numbers for the sake of it, and for them to get the same opportunities as everybody else. My hope for them and for every girl growing up in Ireland is that they will have the confidence to dream big, the support to pursue those dreams, and the freedom to shape their own futures. While this week is a week of celebration, it is also a stark reminder that we must continue working to achieve true equality. When women are supported to succeed, as I outlined, our communities thrive, our economy grows stronger and our society becomes fairer and more inclusive for everybody. As we mark International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women across Ireland. Let us honour their contributions past and present, and renew our commitment in this House to building a future where every girl and woman can reach her full potential.

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