No kiss of death to female representation

I must take issue with some of the assertions made by Mary Regan in her piece “The kiss of death for female representation in politics?” (Forum, Apr 15).

Her broad stroke approach to the attitude of Government, and Fine Gael in particular, bears no resemblance to my experience as a new female member of that party, where I am seen, heard, encouraged and advised.

I remind you that it was this Government which introduced the gender balance legislation last year, in order to encourage broader participation in politics to strengthen and modernise our democracy — not before time. When we succeed in having a more representative parliament from 2016 onwards we will begin to see a model which reflects the needs and concerns of all citizens from across many under-represented groups.

The local elections in 2014 present an opportunity for all parties to start to enact this policy and new approach, and this is to be welcomed. When a candidate of either gender decides to seek election to public office this is an important decision to try to serve one’s electors honestly, diligently and fairly.

For Mary Regan to reduce our participation to a bright and breezy photo opportunity is unhelpful and disingenuous to any of us who aspire to make a difference in our communities and beyond.

Samantha Long

Terenure

Dublin 6w