Sport Ireland Publishes Updated Women in Sport Policy


Cycling Ireland welcomes Sport Ireland's announcement this week of the release of its updated Women in Sport Policy, building on its commitment to promote gender equality and empower women in the sports sector.


Originally launched in March 2019, the policy aimed to enhance the involvement of women in sports and provide a roadmap for Sport Ireland's initiatives in this area.


In February 2023, Sport Ireland conducted a comprehensive review of the Women in Sport Policy, engaging an independent consultant to ensure its relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with the current needs of the sector. The review sought to identify target areas, objectives, and actions that would further advance the progress made since 2005.


The updated policy sets forth several key objectives to drive gender equality within the sporting landscape:


  • Recognising gender balance on boards as best practice, urging all sports organizations to aspire to achieve this.
  • Increasing the representation of women in governance and leadership positions.
  • Cultivating a culture within sporting organizations that values and acknowledges women's contributions to leadership and governance, recognising it as fundamental to their growth and development.
  • Creating opportunities and support structures that encourage sustained participation in sports by women and girls of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Addressing the drop-out rate among teenage girls in physical activity and sports.
  • Elevating the visibility and profile of women's sports and women in sports.
  • Broadening the coaching and officiating base to include more women and girls at all levels, from grassroots to high performance.


This week's updated policy comes as Cycling Ireland appoint Helen Kerrane as our new Women in Sport lead. Helen will bring a wealth of experience to the role and will work to promote gender equality and empower women across all levels of cycling.


Helen Kerrane said: 

"I am delighted to take up the post of Women in Sport Lead in an era where there is so much support for women and girls in sport. I look forward to championing women and girls in cycling and celebrating our abilities and successes at all levels."


You can view full details of the Sport Ireland Updated Women in Sport Policy here.