Sir, - Offaly West, with funding from the Combat Poverty Agency, is undertaking a research study into the participation of women in local development in Offaly. Because development is normally approached from the perspective of the sector, area or community, it often overlooks differences between people in these contexts, such as gender.
This research will benefit women in the area, identifying problems and will provide a catalyst to begin to tackle the causes of these. Major themes for the study are promoting access to education and training, and the integration of women in local development and decision-making.
We hope that the outcome of this study will promote social solidarity and equal opportunities for women to develop strategies to respond to changes in the organisation of work, training and community life. All submissions from groups or individuals with an interest in this topic are welcome and can be forwarded to me at the address below. - Yours, etc.,
Crank House, Banagher, Co Offaly.