Antoinette hopes to make history in Swinford

Antoinette Peyton is determined to make history by becoming the first female councillor to represent the Swinford Electoral Area.

Ms Peyton said: “It's hard to believe that as of 2024, we have never elected a female councillor for this electoral area in the history of the state. I believe it to be long overdue.” 

At present there are only two women amongst the 30 councillors on Mayo County Council. In this century, only 11% of councilors elected in Mayo were female. 

"I see this as a glaring gap in representation that I’m eager to fill," she said. "I, along with my fellow candidates, hope to change this on June 7th. I think it’s incredibly important that women are at the decision-making table, sitting in the chamber of Mayo County Council."

Ms Peyton also referred to the dearth of women in national politics.

"Since 1919, only 22 women have held ministerial positions in Ireland. Notably, there has never been a female Taoiseach, despite the presence of highly capable female TDs since the foundation of the state.

"Since the inauguration of the Dáil Eireann in 1919, women have persistently fought for equitable representation in politics. More than a century later, this battle endures as we push for gender parity within the political landscape.

“The lack of women in our political system and Mayo County Council has made me more eager to enter into the world of politics and has been a core part of why I’m contesting this election.

“In the next 10 years, I would love to see more young people and female candidates putting themselves forward. I believe it’s important. We need to force politics to focus more on issues that affect women and young people. Issues such as housing, employment opportunities and childcare.

“I hope to be the first candidate to cross this barrier in the Swinford Local Electoral Area but I will do so knowing I may be the first but I certainly won't be the last!”