Women of the Islands

-A Vital Life-force-

Inishlyre, Clew Bay

53 AcresPopulation: 3

Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann

The Federation of Ireland’s Islands

Representing Ireland’s Islandson National, Local and European

Levels

Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann:ChallengesAccess: Sea, Air and BroadbandPolicy: Recognising that mainland policies don’t

necessarily “fit” the Island situationEmployment: Encouraging entrepreneurshipHealth care: A unified approachEducation and keeping youth on the IslandsCommunity Development: Helping strengthen

communitiesSustainability: Economic, Social and Environmental

A Different Set of CircumstancesGeographic isolation Insularity Harsh weather Extraordinary environment Strong culture & heritage Diverse skill sets

Tourism Development

The first hotels on Inishbofin, Co. Galway

Community Engagement & Craft Entrepreneurship

Craftwork & the Community : Inis Oírr

Craftwork & the Community : Inis Oírr

Weaving: Crafting and Teaching on Clare Island

Community Development: Inish Turk

Health CareInadequate fundingNeed for unified, nation-

wide Island health program

Difficulty in accessing locum doctors

Lack of cover nurses

EducationNeed to Island-proof Dept. of Education’s enrolment

policiesSome Islands without secondary school

Inis Meáin: Coláiste Naomh Eoin

Sustainable Living/Alternative Tourism

Island SustainabilityEconomic, Social and Environmental Sustainability Renewable energy projects Pilot broadband schemes The AranLife project Aquaculture programs Practices related to High

Nature Value Farming

On the Sea

Women of the Islands Women contribute positively to their

communities in their everyday lives. Women have set their Islands on the

road to recognition through tourism, craft work and alternative therapies and farming practice.

Women that save lives through the medical and recue services.

Women who influence our youth through teaching and sport.

Women who are leaders in community development, working to provide services, training and enhancement of the environment.