A new book recognizing the contributions of women in Cork city government was recently launched at Cork City Hall. “Leading the Way” profiles twelve individuals who have significantly impacted local governance in the city.
Celebrating Local Leadership
The book is authored by Dr. Aodh Quinlivan, a senior lecturer at University College Cork; John Ger O’Riordan, a retired local government official; and Anne Twomey, an adult educator with the Cork Education and Training Board. The twelve women featured are Anna Haslam, Susanne Rouviere Day, Mary MacSwiney, Anne Sutton, Jenny Dowdall, Chrissie Aherne, Deirdre Clune, Catherine Clancy, Mary Shields, Deirdre Forde, Ann Doherty, and Valerie O’Sullivan.
The launch event was attended by the Lord Mayor of Cork, Fergal Dennehy, who stated the women “broke new ground, challenged the status quo and laid the foundations for others to follow.” He also acknowledged Dr. Quinlivan’s publishing record of eleven books in nineteen years.
Recognition and Distribution
Valerie O’Sullivan, Cork city council chief executive, expressed her honor at being included in the book and emphasized the importance of public service. Rebecca Loughry, director of services – corporate, community and cultural affairs and Cork city council, thanked Cork City Libraries for publishing the work. The book is slated for distribution to schools throughout the city.
Councillor Ciara O’Connor, current chair of the city council women’s caucus, highlighted the caucus’s ongoing work and expressed support for the book. The authors themselves spoke at the launch, underscoring the historical underrepresentation of women in the role of Lord Mayor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the authors of “Leading the Way”?
The book is written by Dr. Aodh Quinlivan, John Ger O’Riordan, and Anne Twomey.
Which women are profiled in the book?
The book profiles Anna Haslam, Susanne Rouviere Day, Mary MacSwiney, Anne Sutton, Jenny Dowdall, Chrissie Aherne, Deirdre Clune, Catherine Clancy, Mary Shields, Deirdre Forde, Ann Doherty and Valerie O’Sullivan.
Where will the book be distributed?
The book will shortly be distributed to schools across Cork city.
The publication of “Leading the Way” could inspire further research into the roles women have played in shaping Cork’s local government, and may lead to increased efforts to promote gender equality within the city council.
