The National Women's Council of Ireland (NWCI) made its pre-budget submission at Leinster House this morning, saying the Government was not doing enough in childcare provision.
Undaunted by the cold, drizzly morning, dozens of women from groups such as the NWCI, the traveller community and Women's Aid were joined by a handful of politicians, including Labour Party leader Ruairí Quinn outside the entrance to the Dáil.
Their submission on the budget was delivered in a shopping trolley representing what can be afforded by a woman on social welfare or low pay.
"We are trying to draw attention to women's contribution to the Celtic Tiger," said NWCI chairperson Ms Gráinne Healy.
"Previous budgets have not recognised the position of women today in Ireland. Women are most at risk of poverty in Ireland," she said.
Ms Healy sees childcare as a key issue. "Childcare is still not being provided as a way out of poverty. The Government says getting a job is the way out of poverty, but you need to have childcare for that.
"This time around we want women to have their fair share," she said. It was a point that was echoed by all those present who, when asked "What do we want?", replied "Our fair share".
Among the recommendations made by the NWCI in their submission are:
- Paid parental leave at the current rate of Maternity Benefit Payment.
- Five days of paid paternity leave.
- Child Benefit Payment to be increased by £25 per week.
- A free national breast- and cervical-screening programme.
- Medical card system to be extended to all dependent children under 18.
