40% of directors want gender quota system

Three quarters of company directors feel there is a lack of diversity in Irish boardrooms, with more than 40% suggesting a gender quota system should be introduced.

A new survey from Limerick- founded and Dublin-headquartered executive search firm, Harty International, shows that the vast majority of existing board members of Irish plcs feel that Ireland is lagging in terms of boardroom diversity — not just on gender grounds, but also when it comes to age and international expertise.

On the issue of gender equality, over 80% of directors said there is a disparity between men and women. However, while 42% feel gender quotas should be introduced for directors’ boards, over 50% said it would have a negative impact on securing the best person for the job.

According to company founder John Harty: “Female gender quotas have been the subject of much debate in recent months. However, this report highlights that they are only part of a greater diversity issue.

“Diversity at board level provides a basis for more informed decision making processes, benefiting corporates overall. Irish boards must consider a broad range of qualities and attributes, beyond those directly related to the position, when appointing a new board member.”

When asked if they felt Irish boards are currently well-balanced on gender terms, 82% of respondents answered ‘no’. The same response was given by 57% when asked about international expertise; 55% on age balance and 38% on industry expertise.

“There is a clear desire amongst plc directors in Ireland for greater parity between men and women. Everyone sees the value of having a male and female perspective.

“What we hope is that the gender debate will bring attention to the other areas of board diversity, which this survey has revealed are lacking at present,” Mr Harty added.