Cliona Foley: Portmarnock and Leinster victories a landmark in the battle for equality

Portmarnock Golf Club understandably got headlines by finally giving their antediluvian ‘men-only’ membership rule a DeChambeau-force belt into the adjacent Irish Sea

Julian Kunzenbacher of Germany putts on the 8th green during the Irish Challenge Golf at Portmarnock Golf Links in Dublin this week. The club at Portmarnock ended their controversial 'men-only' policy in a high-profile decision. Picture:  Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Two important equality doors were pushed open in Irish sport this week.

And it is arguable that Leinster rugby’s boardroom decision will have far greater effect than one made by a private club that is already the exclusive preserve of the ultra-rich and privileged.