Today marks International Women’s Day. Every March 8th at events around the globe #IWD highlights the achievements of women, but also the inequalities faced by them, in all elements of society.

I was thrilled to be invited by the Irish Defence forces Commandant Gillian Martin, to an event hosted by Brigadier General David Dignam, at the Curragh.

I spoke about how the Irish Defence Forces were miles ahead of many of their international counterparts, putting equity and equality at its very heart. The fact that not only are women treated equally but also members of the LGBTQI+ , community whom are supported and encouraged; and this was something we should all be very proud of.

While women make up for just 6-7% of the members, they are an integral part of the force and are fully integrated. I spoke about how treating people equally is such an important part of my service. That the only restrictions on what any of us could achieve are the ones we put on each other, and ourselves. It was such a wonderful experience and I was heartened by the warm reception I received.

Speaking with the young cadets, while we still have so much work todo, it seems that the theme #EachforEqual was understood and I was not alone in my passion for equality and diversity in all elements of our society.