Women’s Council to protest over ‘unequal golf club policy’

THE National Women’s Council is to protest at the Irish Open next month if a row over membership is not resolved.

The move follows a decision by the Equality Authority to take a discrimination case against Portmarnock Golf Club because it does not allow women to become full members.

Chairwoman of the National Women’s Council Gráinne Healy said she regretted that the court action by the Equality Authority was the only option left.

She also criticised Bord Fáilte for providing €250,000 of ‘taxpayers money’ to sponsor the Open.

“It’s completely unacceptable that this club continues to argue that they are operating a sporting club on a discriminatory basis. They are getting taxpayers money to host the Irish Open, which will give them even more status and kudos.

“Since the equal status legislation came in three years ago, there were more golf clubs who only allowed women to be associate members. But there are now only two remaining clubs, including Portmarnock, who don’t want to have women as full members.”

The prestigious Dublin club has denied it is in breach of the Equal Status Act and has begun proceedings in the High Court to assert its rights under the act.