Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) plays a vital role in shaping Ireland’s future. Talent is one of Ireland’s most valuable natural resources, and we have seen the power of embracing DEI principles to empower organisations and drive economic prosperity. It is imperative to ensure that we have access to a diverse pool of talent essential for continued growth and innovation. DEI is not merely a checkbox; it is an ongoing journey that can yield positive impacts at every stage. Intentional efforts to promote inclusivity can lead to transformational change. 

This panel will bring together thought leaders, innovators and leaders to discuss accelerating female participation at senior levels in the public sector. They will explore how we can make it more attractive for women to join, and stay in the workforce; what more the government can do to get more women into leadership positions; what policies and initiatives are being implemented. They will also discuss how we can embrace equity to inspire all future women including those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, ethnic and religious groups as well as those from less well-off socio-economic backgrounds to reach leadership roles in the public sector.

The panel will outline the educational programmes and initiatives designed to inspire, engage and encourage female participation from early childhood through primary, secondary and third level educational system. What is the vision for the type of education system required to prepare learners for the future? What are the challenges and inequities for young women accessing educational programmes? How is the higher education sector creating a more inclusive approach to the talent pipeline? What capacity building measures are needed to support teachers? What access programmes are available for students? 

The panel will also discuss how some companies are delivering on continuous learning and development opportunities for their employees and how these companies, whose education programs align with their business goals see increased retention, engagement and overall productivity. 

• the role of educators in equipping girls and women to take on leadership roles 
• modernising career guidance to be reflective of today’s job market
• developing leadership skills for emerging female leaders
• the value of employee continuing education

By empowering women in tech, we unlock an organisation’s full potential. From using new skills to driving innovation and economic growth to fostering a more equitable and socially conscious future, investing in women in tech is a strategic decision with far-reaching consequences. Innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising women’s empowerment by expanding economic opportunities, enhancing educational access, improving healthcare accessibility, and increasing safety. This panel will discuss how government, policy makers, educators and businesses can collaborate to empower women with the technology and skills necessary for a better future.

Topics will include:

• the benefits and challenges that come with fast-paced innovation                                                                                                                                                          
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) – addressing the gender bias to achieve ethical AI
• how the EU can best regulate AI while boosting innovation, ethical standards and trust in technology
• how digital and technology leaders can focus strategy to ensure that they add maximum value to the top and bottom line

Self-promotion has long been associated with professional success and with decisions relating to hiring and promotions, including promotions to top management positions. This then becomes an issue of major concern when considered with research showing women are significantly less likely to self-promote than men.  

This panel will discuss how to amplify your own voice and to be your own role model. Learn how to harness the power of networks and networking to propel your career forward and to navigate your career progression in the public sector. Strategic connections are unlocking doors and creating opportunities like never before so effective communication and negotiation skills are crucial for women leaders

Breda will discuss not only the reasons you should want that promotion, but also how to go about getting it. She coaches thousands of professional executive women every year helping them to upgrade and transform their careers and lives. Breda’s insights to mindset and emotional intelligence will help you to build up your confidence and support your journey from ambition to abundance.

Women are significantly out-numbered by men in politics in Ireland. Gender quota legislation introduced prior to the 2016 General Elections resulted in a 6.5 percentage point increase in those elections from 15.7 per cent of seats held by women to 22.2 per cent. In the last election the increase in the number of women elected increased from 20.1 per cent to 23.9 per cent, a rise of just 3.8 percentage points! There is some progress but we need greater momentum.

This panel will discuss:

• the various barriers to entry that exist for women
• the measures already in place that are making an impact and any further policies and measures in legislation or otherwise that may be effective in increasing the amount of women who are attracted to politics as a career
• gender quotas – are they working?
• the culture of political parties and measures that can be taken by parties to increase female participation in politics
• how can we encourage more men to take on the role of male champions of change?

Why don’t more women become CEOs? A perspective from the seafood sector A host of studies suggest that female leaders are often less favourably received with women making up just 19% of CEOs in Ireland. Caroline gives a perspective on why less women than men are getting to the top and how we could change that

Digital Health Transformation

Enabling digital transformation within the new redesigned care pathways and the best use of data to identify areas of most need