Green Party celebrates St Brigid’s Day

The Green Party celebrated Saint Brigid’s Day, the only national holiday in honour of a woman, for the second year. The Green Party has long called for the creation of the public holiday and secured its establishment as part of the Government. This year, the holiday will provide an annual day of leave on Monday, February 5th.

Minister Catherine Martin expressed the profound significance of Lá Fhéile Bríde, emphasising its unique status as Ireland's sole national holiday dedicated to honouring a woman;

“Brigid embodied the pivotal role played by women in shaping the cultural fabric of the nation.  It is important as part of this national holiday that we celebrate the contributions of women across Irish society. Lá Fhéile Bríde, with its roots in ancient Celtic traditions, stands as a symbol of Ireland's rich heritage and the enduring strength found in the stories of remarkable women throughout history.”

“I encourage the nation to embrace the day not only as a celebration of Irish womanhood but also as a platform for fostering inclusivity and gender equality. Lá Fhéile Bríde provides an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and inspire a future where women continue to play a central role in shaping Ireland's vibrant identity.”

Councillor Eva Dowling, Chair of the Green Women/Mná Glasa group and Leas Cathaoirleach for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said;

“This year women across the country will have several opportunities to have their voices heard, with the upcoming referendums on 8th March as well the local and European elections in June. 

"In 2024 it is totally outdated to assign housework to just one gender and to fail to recognise all families, in our constitution. As we have become more inclusive and progressive as a society in recent years, so too should our constitution reflect a modern Ireland which is why the Green Women's group is campaigning for a strong 'double yes' vote on March 8th. 

"Irish and European women will be amongst the 4 billion people worldwide casting their vote in a political election this year. After years of a global state of permacrisis, Green women will be standing for election and re-election in both locals and Europeans offering Green solutions to society's greatest challenges."

Senator Pauline O’Reilly, Director of Elections for the upcoming referendums, said;

“Women in politics are facing harassment and intimidation unlike any other time. As a party, we are deeply committed to supporting female representation in public office and are proud to have a 50/50 gender balance in our Local Election candidates this year. We hope to see this across all parties and ultimately reflected in our elected representatives.”