RTÉ star Aoibhinn weighs in on Rose of Tralee bashing

RTÉ star Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin has weighed in to the Rose of Tralee debate to defend the festival from its annual bashing and insist she never felt demeaned by the contest.

Arguably the country’s most famous Rose, the Mayo presenter is well equipped to stand up for the Kerry contest, which helped to propel her into a household name.

The presenter defended the contest yesterday on Newstalk against withering criticism levelled by an Irish columnist in England called Katy Harrington who dubbed it “cattle mart with hairspray”.

“I had a great time doing it and I didn’t feel demeaned at all, and I didn’t feel I was causing anyone else embarrassment. I didn’t feel it was derogatory to me to participate in it,” said Ms Ní Shúilleabháin.

“It’s an old chestnut and comes up every year. Saying it is a cattle mart with hairspray is completely ridiculous. It is obvious she hasn’t been to the festival if she is talking like this.

“For the whole week there’s 35 girls from all over the world enjoying their culture and celebrating being Irish.”

Ms Ní Shúilleabháin said she was amazed at the effect of the competition on Irish communities around the world.

“To honestly say modern Irish women aren’t represented on it is actually sickening to me.”

The PhD candidate said prospective Rose contestants often tell her they won’t apply to participate until they have a degree.

“It’s a positive enforcement for young girls to be watching Irish women who have PhDs and master’s [degrees] and set up their own businesses and are doing well.”

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of the women who were once Roses of Tralee.”