Stamps to honour Irish suffrage movement

AN Post has released two stamps themed around women’s rights to celebrate the centenary of International Women’s Day.

In co-ordination with the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI), An Post created two stamps and a series of specially commissioned postcards to celebrate the event, which takes place on March 8.

The stamps were designed by renowned Irish designer Ger Garland, to celebrate International Women’s Day and the founding of the Irish Women’s Suffrage Federation by Louie Bennett in 1911.

A 55c stamp is designed in the style of the suffrage handbills of the early 20th century while a purple presentation of the female symbol adorns the 82c stamp.

Ms Garland was also involved in the design of the postcards which feature historical photographs from the collection of the National Library of Ireland depicting female Irish workers at the turn of the 20th century.

Anna McHugh of An Post said she expects very strong interest in the stamps from all quarters, nationally and internationally.

“Those who strove and suffered to further the rights of women, also succeeded in improving the living and working conditions of the wider community,” she said.

“These stamps are a fitting tribute to those pioneering women of past centuries as well as those who continue that work today.”

Chief executive of the NWCI Susan McKay said they were delighted to have partnered An Post in this centenary of International Women’s Day.

“These beautiful cards and stamps will become collectors’ items for future generations of feminists, reminding them of the work women have done in and for this country,” she said.

lThe new stamps together with a special First Day Cover envelope may be viewed and purchased at www.irishstamps.ie, at the Irish Stamps Shop and main post offices.