The event is to help women who are considering entering a career politics.
(Image credit: evoke.ie)Female politicians of the future are picking up skills today at a 'Campaign Bootcamp' in Athlone in County Westmeath.
The event, in the Sheraton Hotel, is being organised by Fianna Fáil to support candidates in the upcoming local elections.
Former government minister, Mary O'Rourke, is the keynote speaker - she says they'll learn about networking, and how to communicate your message on the doorstep:
"That voter is actually your employer. He or she, based on the encounter at the door, is going to vote for you.
And also the networking advice among one and another, which will be invaluable to them [the local election candidates], as they start on this path for local democracy.
I think local democracy is very important. It's the first rung up on a ladder leading to who knows what."
The former deputy leader of Fianna Fáil says entering politics can be a daunting prospect for women, but events like this 'Bootcamp' are intended to dispel these worries:
"I remember when I started off as a member of a county council all those years ago, and went into the room with 24 men and one women, I thought to myself 'Oh what am I letting myself in for?'
But these women will be able to chat to one another. We'll have some seasoned women councillors and we'll have all the newbies.
I think it's very good for them to talk things over together."
Mrs. O'Rourke reiterated the importance of encouraging women to have their voice heard:
"If you're interested in education, if you're interested in the environment, if you're interested in planning, if you're interested in future, well then you should get involved.
Life is for living. Life is for grasping the opportunity."
