A GUIDE TO Introduction 3 STAGE 5 21-26 Who to lobby EFFECTIVE LOBBYING STAGE 1 5-6 - Who to lobby in Ireland WOMEN’S GROUPS Lobbying and the potential for - Who to lobby in the European Union women’s groups - Maintaining motivation IN IRELAND - What is lobbying? - Recognising the potential of your work STAGE 6 27-32 Developing your media strategy Contents STAGE 2 7-10 - What is the media? Understanding how policy is made - Devising a media strategy - What is policy? - Contacting the media - Who influences policy? - Attracting the media - Who decides policy? - Compiling a campaign media resource - Policy and legislation - Do’s and Don’ts

STAGE 3 11-14 TOOLS AND RESOURCES 33-40 Getting started on your - How to write a letter to a decision-maker Lobbying Campaign - How to draft a submission - Identifying your issue - How to present a submission - Building your case - How to get the most from meeting (I) gathering information decision-makers (Ii) establishing the policy context - How to draft a parliamentary question - Creating your lobbying document - Holding an event and sample event checklist STAGE 4 15-20 - How to hold meetings Developing your Campaign - Sample press release - Planning your lobbying strategy - Your group’s campaign charter APPENDIX 1: THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS 41 - Gaining support USEFUL RESOURCES: 43-46 The education and empowerment of Background We wish to thank the following people who women throughout the world cannot fail contributed their time, expertise and knowledge to In late 2005, the National Women’s Council to result in a more caring, tolerant, just the training events: of Ireland undertook a project to enhance the and peaceful life for all. lobbying capacity of women’s groups throughout Aung San Suu Kyi Dan Boyle, T.D. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate leader of Ireland. It began by conducting a number of Kathleen Lynch, T.D. MyanMar’s democracy movement regional training seminars for women’s groups Dr. Sandra Mc Evoy, “ with the participation of local politicians. Cork Women’s Political Association c Breda Moynihan-Cronin, T.D. The development of this handbook has arisen Catherine Murphy, T.D. directly from the information obtained at these Jan O’Sullivan, T.D. seminars and was devised bearing in mind the Peter Power, T.D. concerns and needs of the participants. We extend our thanks to the women who participated in the training events and shared their Acknowledgements experiences with us. Their insights were invaluable We would like to acknowledge and appreciate PAGE  PAGE in producing this publication. / the work of Darra Power-Mooney (MSocSc) in compiling the materials for this handbook and Finally, we wish to thank the Combat Poverty in co-ordinating the regional lobbying training Agency for providing the funding to carry out this seminars, which formed the basis for this piece of work. publication. We would also like to express gratitude to the NWCI staff members, in particular, Orla O’ Connor (Head of Policy) and Rachel Doyle (Head of Outreach) for their work on this handbook and on the training. A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s lobbying campaign; case studiessoastoassistinthedevelopmentofa action. Eachsectioncontainstips,examplesand to supportyourgroupinmovingfromissues The layoutofthishandbookissetoutinstages policy-making process. country toengagewithdecision-makersandthe build thecapacityofwomen’s groupsacrossthe decision-makers inIrelandandisdesignedto It isintendedasaguidetoeffectivelobbyingof groups developanachievablestrategyforchange. The purposeofthishandbookistoassistwomen’s Introduction

Developing your MediaStrategy STAGE people,Lobbyingthe Right the Right Way STAGE Developing your Campaign STAGE onyourGetting Started Lobbying Campaign STAGE Understanding how policyismade STAGE isLobbying?What STAGE 2 1 6 5 4 3

c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland INTRODUCTION / PAGE  c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland INTRODUCTION / PAGE  women’s groups potential for Lobbyingthe and STA GE 1 “ Jane O’Reilly, Writer wherever andhoweverwecan. the future,andchallenge present, We mustrememberthepast,define c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 3 / PAGE  c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 1 / PAGE  decision-making process. Describes lobbyingandthepotentialthatexistsforwomen’s groupstoachievechangethroughparticipationinthe STAGE to asgrassrootslobbying. writing campaigns.Thiscansometimesbereferred general publicinlobbyingactionforexampleletter decision-makers throughtheparticipationof Indirect lobbying face-to-face meetingswithTDs. about anissuetoachievechange,forexample pressuring andinformingkeydecision-makers Direct Lobbying and indirect. Lobbying generallyfallsintotwocategories:direct change throughorganisedaction. on decision-makers,withtheaimofinfluencing Lobbying canbedescribedasanydirectpressure isLobbying?What 1

involvesgainingaccessto, involvesattemptingtoinfluence Lobbying Activitycantakemanyforms • • • Indirect • • • Direct Media activity Public protests Letter writingcampaigns Speaking tocommittees Writing submissions Meeting withpoliticiansandcivilservants

of newprogrammes. when decidingonpolicychangeorthedesign with women,becomearesourceforpolicymakers the knowledgeandexperienceofgroupsworking a keypartofeffectingchange.Lobbyingenables the politicalsystem.Informingdecision-makersis which occursonlywhenstrongpressureisputon inequality requiresfundamentalchangeinpolicy, a localandnationallevel.Eliminatingwomen’s in ensuringthatwomen’s issuesareraisedatboth Lobbying bywomen’s groupsisanessentialtool your Work Recognisingthe Potential of “ Margaret Mead,CulturalAnthropologist thing thateverhas. change theworld.Indeed,itisonly thoughtful committedcitizenscan Never doubtthatasmallgroupof Legislation is slow to produce and slow to dispose of and there are many points in the process where a good lobbyists’ intervention can make all the difference. “ Liz McManus Labour T.D. STAGE 2 Understanding How Policy is Made

We must remember the past, define the future, and challenge the present, wherever and however we can. “ Jane O’Reilly c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 2 / PAGE  Understanding atwhichleveldecisionsaremadewillenableyourgrouptolobbyeffectively. Describes howpolicyismadeandthedifferentgroupsinvolvedinmakingprocess. STAGE widowhood, disabilityandoldage. unemployment, illhealth,maternity, childrearing, during variousstagesofpeople’s lives,including mainly relatetoeconomicandsocialprotection concerning theredistributionofwealthand Social PoliciesaredecisionsmadebyGovernment European andinternationalpolicydecisions. national levelandcanbeinfluencedbyboth Policy inIrelandcanbemadeatalocaland social, political,andeconomicvaluesbeliefs. All policyisinterconnected,reflectingasociety’s from decisionsmadebyGovernment. Policy isacourseofactionresulting isPolicy?What

2

stakeholders toinform&influencepolicy. The Governmentmayalsoconsultwith • • • • influenced inIreland:Forexample: society. Thereareanumberofwayspolicycanbe involvement ofmanydifferentstakeholdersin The developmentofpolicyinIrelandrequiresthe Who influences Policy? with differentstakeholders Consultation andcollectivedecision-making adopted intoIrishpolicy European Uniondecisionsthataretobe the startofeveryDáilsession. A LegislativeProgramme:thatispublishedat term ofoffice Goals andobjectivesofGovernmentforthe upon byanewgovernmentandsetsoutthe A ProgrammeforGovernmentthatisagreed

Women’s groups groups, Environmental groups, and Interests Lobbyists Organisations, Community in shapingandinfluencingpolicy: Diagram showingsomeofthepeopleinvolved Civil Servants. Violence AgainstWomen), e.g. SteeringGroupon (e.g. NESC),Task Forces) Government AdvisoryBodies > Employers, Farmers. and Voluntary Organisations, Trade Unions,Community Social Partnerse.g. INFLUENCING POLICY > >

> & UN The EU

1 makers inthepolicyprocess: Below isadiagramshowingthekeydecision- the negotiationandconsultationprocess civil servants,thejudiciaryandthoseinvolvedin TDs, Senators,membersofpoliticalparties, responsibility ofkeydecision-makersforexample: The draftingandimplementingofpoliciesisthe Policy?Who Decides

Civil Servants Administrators, Public service For afurtherexplanation ofthepoliticalsysteminIreland see:1Harvey, B.(2002)Aguideto influencingpolicyinIreland.Dublin: CombatPovertyAgency.

> local authorities e.g. CountyCouncils, Local government Political parties (Dáil andtheSeanad), The Oireachtas DECISION- MAKERS > > 1 > . Union European The Policy andLegislation “ slow todisposeofandthereare Legislation isslowtoproduceand Liz McManusLabourT.D. make allthedifference. a goodlobbyists’interventioncan many pointsintheprocesswhere c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 2 / PAGE  c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 2 / PAGE 10 Your thoughts… Your STAGE 3 Getting started on your lobbying campaign

No matter how righteous the cause there is always a case for looking at the wider effects of political decisions that may be made in response to a case being made. “ Liz McManus, Labour Party T.D. c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 3 / PAGE 12 enable yourgrouptobecomeclearerontheissuesinvolved,andagreeacommondirectionforcampaign. Describes thestepsinvolvedininitiatingyourcampaign.Fromidentifyingissue,tobuildingandgainingsupport,thesestepswill STAGE • • • • your lobbyingcampaign: questions mayhelpyoudeterminethescopeof decide thesizeandformofyourcampaign.These Defining thescopeofissuewillhelpyourgroup • • • • involved isto: campaign. Ausefulwaytoidentifytheissues this willallowyoutoclearlystatetheaimsofyour identifying thekeyissuesyouwishtolobbyon: The firststepinstartingalobbyingcampaignis Identifying your issue do youthinkcanrunandforhowlong? Depending onresources,howlargeacampaign How willyouknowwhenhaveachievedit? What willthatchangedstatelooklike? lobbying? What doyouwanttochangeorachievefrom Determine whowillitaffectandwhy Establish ifitisalocalornationalissue Find outwhohasresponsibilityinthearea Establish whattheproblemis 3

• • • • • The issuesimportanttothecampaignwereto: welfare systeminrelationtowomen. 2003 withtheaimofreformingIrishsocial Envelope Campaign The NWCI Identifying Issuesandstatingaims CASE STUDY NWCI pension. record andqualifyforafullcontributory women canbuildupasocialinsurance Recognise care-workasajob,sothat make socialinsurancecontributions. people workinginfamilybusinessesto forms ofpaidemploymentandallow Make iteasierforwomentoworkinall a sharingofcare-workinfamilies. Enable agreaterworklifebalanceand Increase women’s accesstopensions. independent. Make womenmorefinancially Social Welfare ReformandBrown . Thiscampaignbeganin

knowing theissuebetterthantheydo! your campaigndeservestheirsupportrequires makers ofyourarguments.Convincingpeoplethat addressing theissuewillassisttoconvincepolicy change andthenegativeimplicationsofnot issue. Showingclearevidenceoftheneedfor background andcurrentinformationaboutyour Building yourcaserequiresgatheringrelevant YourBuilding Case (i) involved inacampaign. understanding andknowledgeoftheissues Assembling informationcreatesadeeper gather informationrelevanttoyourcampaign. The firststeptobuildingyourcaseis Gathering information this handbook!! this of back the at section links information and resources’ ‘useful the See Tip! • • • Gather informationuntilyouaresureabout: • • • • • keep up-to-date: Here isalistofsomewaystogetinformationand political reasonoraneconomic one? is theGovernmentrefusingtoactbecauseofa How will this affect your campaign? For example, What istheGovernment’s positionontheissue? local decisionmakingstructures. on otherissuessuchaswomen’s participationin think abouthowthelackofplaceswouldimpact lobbying formorechildcareplacesinyourarea, issue impactonotherpoliciese.g.ifyouwere The widerimplicationsofyourissue–does Central StatisticsOffice(CSO). up todatestatisticse.g.tlecensusdatafromthe The factsoftheissue–usereliablesourcesand access totheinternet Use yourlocallibraries–theyprovidefree documents producedontheissue Make yourself/groupawareofanyreports/ good sourceofinformationonpolicyissues Talk tonationalorganisationswhichcanbea happening withregardtotheissue Read newspaperstokeepupdatewithwhat’s Migrant Women, womenwithdisabilities who aremostexcludede.g.Traveller women, women affected by the issue, particularly women Organise awarenessraisingsessionsandinvite policies thatinfluenceyourissue.Forexample: to findoutiftherearenationalorinternational Although notessential,itmayhelpyourcampaign (ii) EstablishingthePolicyContext lobbying position. standards orpolicywillhelpstrengthenthe that yourissuehasafoundationininternational the EuropeanWomen’s Lobby(EWL).Knowing or aEuropeanlobbyingorganisationsuchas your issuewithanationalorganisation,MEP back upyourcase?You coulddothisbydiscussing are therehumanrightsagreements,EUlawthat

> > > THINK Women Directive The EqualTreatment forMenand What isthelawinthisarea? the BeijingPlatformforAction? conventions onthisissuee.g.CEDAW or Has IrelandsignedanyUnitedNations position onthisissue?eg: Does theEUhaveadirective,

the existingpolicy. of concerntoyou,askyourselfwhatiswrongwith If decisionshavealreadybeenmadeontheissue

> > > > > THINK as youexpected? Has itnotbeenimplementedfully? Are theresourcesinsufficient? Has itnotbeenimplemented your issue? Would fullimplementationaddress certain sectionofthecommunity? particular areaortheneedsofa Has itneglectedtoaddressa

c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 3 / PAGE 13 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 3 / PAGE 14 > > > Style: • • • • • Things toinclude: on yourissuecanbeusedhere. from othergroups.Informationyouhavegathered from informingdecision-makerstogainingsupport can beusedatvariousstagesofyourcampaign group andyourmainobjectives.Thisdocument A lobbyingdocumentisashortdescriptionofyour Document Creating aLobbying act. of actionyouwantandthepeoplewhoneedto Recommendations forchange;thatisthecourse improve thesituation What needstobedonesolvetheproblemor Who thisissueaffects What theproblemis Who youareandwhorepresent Reform Campaign’ for example:TheNWCI’s ‘SocialWelfare have itreflectthepurposeofyourcampaign, Give yourcampaignatitle–keepitshortand Use clearlanguage,aimtoeducateandinform Keep themessageshortandsimple for example: up amailinglistofthepeoplewhoneedtoreadit, Before distributingyourlobbyingdocument,draw - - - - organisations workingonsimilarissues Allies: local,nationalorinternational Media: localandnationaljournalists Key civilservantsandadvisors Local andnationalpoliticians no more than 4pages! than more no - concise document the keep Try to Tip!

My main advice would be, to be determined and focused on achieving your goal. Don’t give up at the first or second “no”, use all opportunities to highlight your issue and use the different strengths and contacts of the individuals in your group in a coordinated plan of action. “ Jan O’Sullivan, Labour T.D.

STAGE 4 Developing your Campaign c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 4 / PAGE 16 type ofcampaignyouwishtorun: Involves planningyourcampaignstrategy. Thissectionofthehandbookisbroken downinto3stepstohelpyourgroupdecideonthe STAGE > > > > > > > > developing yourstrategy: Here areanumberofpointstoconsiderwhen your goals. campaign andsetsoutalistoftaskstoachieve by-step guideofhowyouwishtoconductyour lobbying strategy. in developingyourcampaignistodecideona have startedtobuildyourcase,thenextstep Now thatyouhaveresearchedyourissueand Strategy Planning your Lobbying 4 Will welobbylocal councillors,TDs,MEPs …? your issue? Who arethekeydecision-makers regarding will weneed? What resourcesdowehave? Whatresources What contactsdowehavealready? gain support? How willweworktohighlighttheissueand coverage? campaign? Dowewantlocalornational What willbetheroleofmediain the campaign? What groupsshouldwetrytogetinvolvedin issue currentlyonthepoliticalagenda? the politicalbackgroundtothisissue?Is What isthecurrentpoliticalclimate?

A lobbyingstrategyisastep- > PlanningyourLobbyingStrategy 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. LOBBYING STRATEGY REFORM CAMPAIGN SOCIAL WELFARE NWCI Meetings withdecision-makers Submissions Parliamentary questions Media strategy Meetings withpoliticalparties support andbuildlinks Meetings withnationalorganisationstogain NWCI memberinput Outreach andFocusGroupWork > Your CampaignCharter > GainingSupport. actions andissues. of importantobjectives,rolesandresponsibilities, create itscampaignstrategybydefininganumber which whencompletedwillhelpyourgroupto Overleaf isasampleCampaignCharterDocument, Your Campaign Charter

Campaign CharterDocument-Overview achieving itsaims? What couldpreventyourgroup from Constraints: List ofmilestonesanddates Success Criteria: awareness foryourcampaign: Ways youareplanningtoraise Media Strategy Key Decision-Makers: Strategic Objectivesi.e.informkeydecision-makers: Campaign Strategy Supporting Organisations Roles andResponsibilities: What doyouhopetoachieve? Campaign Objectives: State belowthecampaign’s linkwithyourgroup’s work: Campaign Issue: Title: Group Title: Campaign Lobbying Week 1 Local Lists ofJournalists Task Long Term Week 2 National DirectLobbying CampaignActions Skill Required Medium Term Week 3 Contact details: Timeframe: Indirect Lobbying Person Short term Week 4 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 4 / PAGE 17 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 4 / PAGE 18 3. 2. 1. Begin by: (i) Buildingalliances a mandateforyourgroup. attention, exchanginginformationandestablishing credibility withdecision-makers,attractingmedia lobbying campaign,thisincludes;gaininggreater community supporthasmanybenefitsfora your campaign.Buildingalliancesandharnessing with differentorganisationscanhelptostrengthen Developing relationshipswithinthecommunityand Gaining Support

your issue. facilitates thepossibleformationofasolutionfor group needstodo.Working withothergroups could evenreducetheamountofworkyour the exchangeofideasandinformation regional andnationalorganisationsenables Networking ormakingcontactwithlocal, from eachother’s experience. Networking allowswomen’s groupstobenefit who wouldspeakoutforyour campaign Finding outiftherearemembers ofthepublic for otherlocalgroups Identifying areasofinterestinyourcampaign or asimilaroneandmaysupportit nationally mayalreadybeworkingonthisissue Finding outwhichorganisationslocallyor 4. (ii)Harnessing communitysupport - - And rememberto: have giventoyou. Publicly acknowledgeanysupportorganisations them uptodatewithyourprogress! Maintain contactwithothergroupsandkeep your issuesecurepublicity. can giveyourcampaignmomentumandhelp those inyourcommunitytooffertheirsupport impacting ondecision-makers.Encouraging of thepubliccanhaveagreaterchance A campaignthathasthesupportofmembers they succeededorwherefailed similar tothatofyourgroups–findouthow countries toseeifthereisalobbyingcampaign Looking tootherareasofIrelandor • • • • Ask peopleto: Here isalistofotherwaystogetpeopleinvolved: impact onpeople. session whereyoudiscusstheissueandits attend apublicmeetingorawarenessraising on behalfofyourcampaign to speaktheirlocalpoliticiansatclinics, handbook) Tools andResourcessectionattheendofthis write totheirlocalTDsandministers(seethe sign petitionsordistributecampaignleaflets, to write their own!! their write to use can they letter a draft with them provide behalf your TDson their to write to people want you if example: For involved! get waysto them show help, to people ask Don’t just Tip! public meeting! public the attend to campaign your supports who apolitician get Try to Tip! Citizens Parliament. Network (OPEN),Senior One ParentandExchange Network (OWN),OneFamily, Women’s Networks(NCCWN),OlderWomen’s National CollectiveofCommunity-based Organisation fortheUnemployed(INOU), Irish FarmersAssociation(IFA), IrishNational Irish CountryWoman’s Association(ICA), organisations were:AgeAction,Comhairle, their membership.Examplesofthese gathering informationandsupportthrough Reform Campaign informing themaboutthe national organisationswiththepurposeof The NWCIheldanumberofmeetingswith Building Alliances CASE STUDY , formingalliancesand Social Welfare c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 4 / PAGE 19 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 4 / PAGE 20 Your thoughts… Your STAGE 5 Who to Lobby

The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me. “ Ayn Rand, visionary writer & philosopher. c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 5 / PAGE 22 your goals. This sectionaimstohelpyourgroupdecidewhoarethepeoplelobbyonissueandhowcantheyassistyouinachieving The quickestrouteintothepoliticalprocessandgettingyourissueonagendaisthroughlobbyingappropriatepeople. STAGE issue aremade: determine wherethedecisionsrelatingtoyour level. Beforedecidingwhotolobbyithelps the relevantpeopleandlobbyingatappropriate An effectivelobbyingcampaignreliesontargeting > > THINK 5

health, equalityorsocialwelfareissue? What isthepolicydomain?e.g.ita decisions inthisarea? board oranappointedcommitteemake a county/town/citycouncil,designated Does aGovernmentdepartment, issues andareinvolvedinthe creationofbyelaws. of localcommunities.Councillors thenvoteonlocal represent andrespondtothe concernsandneeds How cantheyhelp? County, city, ortown. Councillors: membersoflocalauthorities– (ix) RecreationFacilitiesandAmenities Protection includingrivers,lakes,airandnoise, (vii) HealthandWelfare, (viii)Environmental Controls, (v)Agriculture,(vi)Education, and Sewerage,(iv)DevelopmentIncentives (i) Housing,(ii)Planning,(iii)Roads,Water Supply of awiderangepublicservicesinyourarea: the IrishGovernmentresponsibleforprovision Local AuthoritiesinIrelandarelocalbranchesof operational andrepresentationalroleinyourarea. Local GovernmentinIrelandhasbothan county, city, town Local AuthoritiesandCouncillors: Local Government decision-makers. to findoutwhataretheresponsibilitiesof A goodwayofdeterminingwhocanhelpis TheroleofaCouncilloristo responsibility inthearea. and shadowtheGovernmentMinisterwhohas and finance.Theyhelpdevisepartypolicies on majorpolicyissuese.g.health,transport issue ontheagenda.Spokespersonsareappointed party whipswhocanallplayaroleinputtingyour Political partieshaveadvisors,spokespersonsand Political Parties local amenities. and ratesordecidetobuildaplaygroundother resolutions atCouncilmeetingstochangecharges your area. cultural, communityorgeneraldevelopmentof the social,economic,environmental,recreational, relates topublicservicesinyourarea,including When tolobbyaCouncillor: For example:theCouncilmaypass Government a in party coalition junior the lobby to important be also can It Tip! Whenyourissue 3 2 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. number ofways.Theycan: TDs canhelpalobbyingcampaignin will placeyourissueontheiragenda. brought upatthesemeetings.Ifsuccessful,this whip ortheircolleaguessothatyourissuecanbe good lobbyingtechniqueistodirectlylobbyaparty when thepartymeetsinadvanceofDáilsittings.A with theparty. Theyalsorepresentthepartyline the responsibilityofensuringthatallmembersvote Each politicalpartyalsohasa‘partywhip’,who campaign astheyhaveregularaccesstoMinisters. Ministers. Advisorscanbeusefultoalobbying policy formationbyprovidingexpertadviceto Political advisorsalsoplayanimportantrolein Dublin (4seats), East (3seats),NorthWest (3 seats),Southseats). The Oireachtashas powertoformcommitteesforspecific purposes.Therearefourtypes ofcommittee:Standing,Select JointandSpecial. Write toastateagencyonbehalfofyourgroup personally signtheletter the Government’s positionontheissueand the MinisterwillthenreplytoTDstating Refer yourlettertotherelevantMinister: Speak onorsignamotion Government Bill Veto orhaltamendments/changestoa Introduce aPrivateMembersBill written parliamentaryquestions(PQs) Ask questionsintheDáil,includingoral& 1. Senators can: Members oftheSeanad to boththemediaandmembersofpublic. session andaretelevised.Thesesessionsopen the Committee for yourgrouptomakeapresentationdirectly on yourbehalforperhapsarrangeanopportunity topics fordebatetoaParliamentaryCommittee TDs andSenatorshavetheabilitytopresent Parliamentary Committees 4. 3. 2.

Senators canalsointroduceamendmentsto Raise yourissuewithfellowpartymembers their supportofyourcampaign Lend credibiltyandpoliticalweightthrough Write toastateagencyonbehalfofyourgroup to theDáil Bills intheSeanad,whichwillthenpassback interest in your issue! your in interest an have already TDswho Approach Tip! 2 . MostCommitteesmeetinpublic major committees. Parliament; everyMEPsitsonatleastoneofthe constituencies Greens. PresentlythirteenIrishMEPsfromfour followed bytheSocialists,Liberalsand these arethecentre-rightEuropeanPeople’s Party, There aresevenpoliticalgroups.Thelargestof states, MEPsdonotrepresentnationalinterests. Parliament. Althoughdirectlyelectedbymember five years.IrelandhasthirteenMEPseatsinthe directly electedbyindividualmemberstatesevery Members oftheEuropeanParliament(MEPs)are your localMemberoftheEuropeanParliament. Parliament, theeasiestwaytodosoiscontact If yourgroupwishestolobbytheEuropean European Parliament Council andtheCommission: institutions oftheEU,areParliament, officials andnon-governmentalactors.Themain involves bargainingamongmemberstates, policy. ThedevelopmentofpoliciesintheEU continues toplayasignificantroleinIrishsocial The EuropeanUnion(EU)hasplayedand to Lobbythe EU? Who in 3 sitonvariouscommitteesofthe c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 5 / PAGE 23 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 5 / PAGE 24 > > Other influentialpeopleintheEUParliament: > > > > > > MEPs can: decision makingprocess. affording themahighprofileinthewider much oftheworkonindividualproposals The EuropeanParliamentCommitteesconduct Brussels andtheirdebatesareheldinpublic. Committees meetonceortwiceamonthin is tocoordinatetheworkofcommittees. and 78MEPs.Theroleofcommitteechairs committees whichconsistofbetween25 Committee Chairs for proposedlegislation. initial presentationtotheEuropeanParliament appointed toprepare,discussanddraftan Rapporteurs agreements withnon-EUcountries Have powerofvetoovermanyEUexternal political group Influence theirpoliticalpartyandEU Make PressStatements Question Legislation Table aResolution Vote ontheEUBudget –RapporteursareMEPs –Thereare20parliamentary by theCommitteeofPermanent Representatives A highproportionofCouncil decisionsaremade say overlegislationproposed bytheCommission. Council thatmemberstategovernments havefinal home affairsministers.Itis through theEuropean Home Affairs”groupismadeupofjusticeand member states.Forexample,the“Justiceand The Councilismadeupoftheministers European Council • • • European Commission

Officials inCommissioners’cabinets. ranking officials advisors beforetryingtodirectlycontacthigh- Advisors:Itisimportanttotryandapproach policy inlinewiththeseregulations. and advisegovernmentshowtokeepdomestic evaluate Communitydirectivesandregulations in theCommission.Directoratesmonitorand Directorates andofficialsarethebodiestolobby

opportunities.

an inclusive society based on equal equal on based society inclusive an

contributing to the development of of development the to contributing

Equal Opportunities has the task of of task the has Opportunities Equal

Employment, Social Affairs and and Affairs Social Employment,

The Directorate-General for for Directorate-General The Example

into accountthescaleofyourcampaign! which methodsyouwanttouse,besuretake does requirepeople’s time.Whendecidingon inexpensive waystocampaign.Lobbyinghowever clinics, email,letterwritingandpetitionsareall of money, forexamplemeetingpoliticiansin Lobbying inIrelanddoesnotrequirelargesums decide whattypeofcampaignyouwishtopursue. Establishing whotolobbymakesiteasier Campaign Actions made upofcivilservantsfromthememberstates. work ofsome250committeesandworkingparties (Coreper), whichoverseesandcoordinatesthe

who are available to attend? to available are who

enough people e.g. 15 or more more or 15 e.g. people enough

demonstration do you have have you do demonstration

If you want to hold a a hold to want you If Example > • Lobbying Actions Direct Resources sectionofthishandbook. on theseactionscanbefoundintheTools and campaign methods;furtherinformationandtips The followingisalistofoften-useddirectlobbying about an issue. question can be used to raise public awareness a TD can ask the Government. A parliamentary is no limit to the amount of written questions that written questions seeking a written answer. There questions are given priority. TDs also submit can be oral or written. Each day, five oral the current status of the issue. These questions is to find out the position of the Government or matters. The purpose of parliamentary questions to a Minister and relate to public or administrative questions are asked by Dáil Deputies, addressed Submit parliamentary questions: meetings. through personalcontact,thatis-face-to-face the bestwaytocommunicateinformationis survey of150highlevelofficialswithintheEU, Meet withpoliticians: Accordingtoarecent Parliamentary •

2001-2005’. Submission ontheNationalPlanforWomen for Women: Targeted ActionstoTackle Poverty. Poverty Agency’s Submission‘Towards Equality An exampleofasubmissionistheCombat National Anti-PovertyStrategyandtheBudget. submissions havebeenrequestedare:forthe national newspapers.Examplesoftimeswhen will formallyrequestsubmissionsusuallyin relevant Governmentdepartmentorbody when aconsultationprocesshasbegunthe both verbalandwritten.Inmostcases, Write Submissions:

(See theTools andResourcessectionofthis handbook fortipsonwritingasubmission).

officials and civil servants civil and officials

arrange meetings with relevant relevant with meetings arrange

supporters to do the same, same, the do to supporters Visit TD Clinics and ask ask and Clinics TD Visit

Submissionscanbe Example • • • lobbying actions: Indirect

arguing yourcase. and yourgroup,canbe anexcellentwayof letter can be used to gain recognition for yourself your issuewithadecision-maker. Awellwritten writing isaveryeffectivewayofcommunicating Write lobbyingletterstodecision-makers: you haveinthecommunity! showing decision-makershowmuchsupport Start apetition: deserves theirattention. makers, demonstratingthatyourcampaign a largeturnoutitcanapplypressuretodecision- inform thepublicaboutyourissueandifthereis gain mediaattentionforyourcampaign,itcan holding awell-organisedevent.Aneventcan Organise anevent:

demonstrations

pickets and organise local local organise and pickets Use petitions, marches and and marches petitions, Use

Thisisaveryeasywayof Example There aremanybenefitsto Letter c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 5 / PAGE 25 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 5 / PAGE 26

their campaign. unions aimedathighlighting targeting politicians,themediaandtrade Aid alsoheldanemailawarenesscampaign seek policychangesinthearea.Women’s buildings inanattempttoraiseissuesand The ClotheslineProtestoutsideGovernment 10th December. In2005,Women’s Aidheld ending onInternationalHumanRightsDay, Violence AgainstWomen 25thNovemberand year, beginningonInternationalDayAgainst Violence AgainstWomen’ campaignevery Women’s Aidholds‘16DaysofActionAgainst Violence AgainstWomen’ Women’s Aid‘16DaysofActionAgainst CASE STUDY

Sustainable Activism energy andinterest! Maintaining motivation, > > > > are anumberofstepsyoumaypossiblytake: To sustainthemomentumofyourcampaignthere Celebrate smallvictories speak toyourgroup Invite peoplefromsuccessfulcampaignsto and money what youcanchangebearinginmindtime Develop achievableaims,berealisticabout Set upshort-termgoals “ John StuartMill,Philosopher. only interests. to aforceofninety-ninewhohave One personwithabeliefisequal STAGE 6 Developing a Media Strategy

During the past decade, advances in information technology have facilitated a global communications network that transcends national boundaries and has an impact on public policy, private attitudes and behaviour, especially of children and young adults. Everywhere the potential exists for the media to make a far greater contribution to the advancement of women. “ United Nations Beijing Platform for Action 1995 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 6 / PAGE 28 on ways toattract mediaattention press suchaswriting releases, holdingpress conferences andcarryingoutinterviews. awareness raising andinformation dissemination.Thissectionaimstoassistyour group indeveloping its ownmediastrategy. Italsogives tips The mediahasavery importantrole toplay inthelobbying process andasuccessful lobbying campaignisoftendependentonthemediafor STAGE citizens andrecordevents. in societyistodistributeinformation,inform magazines andtheInternet.Theroleofmedia newspapers, local,communityandnationalradio, media includestelevision,localandnational communication reachinglargeaudiences.Modern The word‘media’referstomethodsofmass the is What ‘Media’? “ Womenthe Media and 6

attitudes andbehaviour, especiallyof has animpactonpublicpolicy, private transcends nationalboundariesand a globalcommunicationsnetworkthat information technologyhavefacilitated During thepastdecade,advancesin United NationsBeijingPlatformforAction1995 advancement ofwomen make afargreatercontributiontothe the potentialexistsformediato children andyoungadults.Everywhere - - - Forexample: in anumberofways makers andevenforceaction.Thiscanbedone debate, whichcancreatepressureondecision- In addition,themediacanprovideaforumfor reaction todecisions. formally monitorthemediatogaugepublic also importanttorememberthattheGovernment reporting onopinionpollsandletterspages.Itis can beausefulwaytojudgepublicopinionby and rousesupportforaparticularcampaign The mediahasthepowertoswaypublicopinion campaign? to alobbying important Whythe mediaso is Radio phone-inshows Television debates Letters pages • • • • • • • • • ways tohelpyourgroupmanagethemedia: publicity youmayreceive.Belowareanumberof the mediaandprepareyourcampaignforany should helpyourgroupdevelopwaysofattracting people areinterestedin.Devisingamediastrategy say somethingnewsworthy. Newsisanythingthat In ordertoattractmediaattentionyoumustdoor Devising aMediaStrategy comments from thepublic Considersettingupawebsite andinvite Try toarrangeappearancesonlocal radio national newspapers Write letterstopages ofbothlocaland Propose articlestolocaljournalists campaign –giveyourcontactdetails Identify andbrieflocaljournalistsonyour about theissue Appoint aspokesperson,whoisknowledgeable different sectorsofsociety make yourissuerelevanttomanypeoplein Develop casestudies:Reallifeexamplescan document messages canbedrawnfromyourlobbying throughout interviewsandpressreleases.These Prepare 3keymessages,whichcanberepeated reach? Identify youraudience–whomdoyouwantto • your group,beinventive.Forexample: If youfindthatthereislittlemediaattentionfor the news. topical orcanberelatedtosomethingalreadyin you willreceivegreaterattentionifyourissueis covering similarstories.Timing isalsoimportant; on itsreadership/listnershiporpasthistoryof you shouldcontact!Selectthetypeofmediabased audience isitbecomesclearerwhattypeofmedia When youhaveanideaofwhoyourtarget the Media Contacting media coverage the peopleinvolvedgreater yourchanceof and againstyourissue,the more wellknown Stage adebateinyourarea with speakersfor so be sure to check. to sure be so different, be will paper Each releases. press receiving for is deadline their what paper each with Check deadlines: of aware -Be TIMING • • 1. WritingaPressRelease your campaign: are someexamplesandtipsongettingattentionfor editors andradiotelevisioninterviews.Below holding apressconference,writinglettersto for yourgroupincludingwritingapressrelease, There aremanywaystoattractmediaattention Attractingthe Media • • • • • journalist rememberto: First impressionsareimportant;whencallinga

Do theyrequirefurtherinformation? get correctcontactdetails. Ask themifyoucansendonapressreleaseand Explain theobjectivesofyourcampaign State whoyouareandrepresent Ask iftheyhavetimetospeakwithyou Hold anevente.g.apublicmeetinginyourarea! shows supportforyourgroup sent toyourgroupfromdecision-makerswhich Release alettertojournaliststhathasbeen releases inanumberofways: a newsworthyevent.Themediausepress attention whenannouncingorrespondingto The purposeofapressreleaseistogetmedia • • • • Things torememberwhenwritingapressrelease: • • •

and How? including: Who?What?When? Where?Why? The pressreleasemustfollow thegeneralruleof important informationfirst descending orderofimportance, thatisthemost Information inthereleasemustbe banner headline! Try toinclude thetitleofyourgroupin information the reader’s attentionandsummarisethe with nomorethan10wordsthatwillgrab Begin withastrongheadline,onesentence as adirectquoteforanarticle your group as abasisforaninterviewwithsomeonefrom background provideabasisforthestory as asourceofinformationwherethefactsand

Combat Poverty Agency Poverty Combat

shared responsibility shared

Ending child poverty is a a is poverty child Ending

Example says says c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 6 / PAGE 29 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 6 / PAGE 30 • • • Format ofapressrelease: • •

to getimportantpointsacross. make itmoreinterestingtoreadandhelpsyou Use quotesthroughouttherelease.Thiswill ‘The currentsituationisunacceptable’ the currentsituationunacceptable’ratherthan use theactivevoice,forexamplewrite‘We find Use clear and simple language, avoid jargon and should nevergoto3! and ahalf,don’tpanicisitgoesto2pagesbut A pressreleaseshouldbenomorethanapage about yourcampaignorgroup press releasetogivebackgroundinformation Editor’s notes-theseappearattheendofa most importanttoyourcampaign this shortandonlywritewhatisinteresting important facts or background to the issue. Keep The bodyofthereleaseshouldcontainsome

Director, Ms Helen Johnston. Helen Ms Director,

poverty” said Combat Poverty Poverty Combat said poverty”

vision of a society free of child child of free society a of vision

politicians, leading with a positive positive a with leading politicians,

national policy articulated by key key by articulated policy national

child poverty we need a clear clear a need we poverty child

“If we are serious about ending ending about serious are we “If Example • • questions fromjournalists. more speakersmakeastatementandthentake information. Duringapressconference,oneor group’s message,askquestionsandcirculatethe conference invitesthemediatolistenyour of yourlobbyingcampaign.Holdingapress attracting themediato,andraisingawareness A pressconferencecanbeanexcellentwayof 2. PressConferences • • • Things torememberwhensendingapressrelease

press release. Phone aroundtoseeitpeoplehavereceivedthe rejected attachment maycauseyourdocumenttobe an email–logoscansometimesappearas Be carefuloflogosandclipartwhensending always opened!) and notasanattachment(attachmentsare send theinformationinbodyofemail When emailingapressreleaserememberto The headingshouldbe14fontsizeandinbold with acleartypeface,forexample:Arial12pt using 1.5spacingandaminimum12fontsize It isrecommendedthatapressreleasebetyped (See Tools andResourcesSectionforasample Press release) • • • • • • • attendance: Here areanumberoftipstohelpsecuretheir attendance ofjournalistsandphotographers. A successfulpressconferencesreliesonthe further informationandfuturecommunications ‘sign-in sheet’forjournalistsandfollowupwith Make anoteofthosewhoattendedbyway questions Keep theconferenceshortandallowtimefor relevant information the issues,onspeakersattendingandanyother and anyadditionalbackgroundinformationon pack’ shouldincludethepressreleasesentout Provide apresspackforjournalists.The‘press conference asareminder Ring aroundjournaliststhemorningof that iseasilyaccessible Hold theconferenceinacentrallocationorone usually best! possible midmorningandearlytoweekis of dayismostlikelytosuitjournalists–where Schedule theconferenceaccordingtowhattime the time,date,venueandyourcontactdetails be sentoutoneweekinadvanceandinclude sent as ‘A Date for your Diary’. The notice should journalists tosomethingcomingupandmaybe Send outapressnotice–alerts • And remember: • • • • • • • when draftingalettertoaneditor: Here areanumberofsuggestionstoconsider around theissuescentraltoyourcampaign. stimulate adebateandinformthewiderpublic your campaign;forinstanceapublishedlettercan paper canservemanyimportantfunctionsfor A lettertoaneditorofanational,localorregional 3. LetterstotheEditor Editors willoftenedityourletter! supporting yourcampaign Mention groupsorwell-knownpeoplewhoare your letter audiences sobearthisinmindwhendrafting Remember thatpapersdifferasdotheir argument Where possibleuseexamplestoillustrateyour State whatchangesyouwishtoseeoccur impacts onthewidersociety Make astrongargumentaroundhowyourissue accurate Make surethatallinformationisuptodateand Keep theletterasbriefpossible to a wide audience. It is important to note that an opportunity for your group to deliver its message Radio and television interviews are a great 4. RadioandTelevision Interviews - - - Before aninterview ------Ask When thecallcomesforaninterview… of time. and practice getting your point across in this space and 30 seconds when pre-recorded, so be brief interview is usually edited down to between 10 advertise it Perhaps haveaneventplannedsoyoucan messages thatyouwouldlikethepublictoknow Draft alistofthethreekeypositivepointsor group Practice yourresponseswithamemberof Who istheinterviewer? Do theyhaveyourcorrectnameandtitle? Will itbeliveorpre-recorded? Will therebeapanel?Ifso,Whowillonit? Where willitbeheld? What isthedateandtimeofinterview? • • Remember: important. is appearance therefore and communication of method avisual is Television • • • • • • • • • • • Tips for television interviews television for Tips Tips! Speak to the journalist and not the camera the not and journalist the to Speak patterns! or stripes black, –avoid colour asolid Wear positive!! be And Comment’ ‘No say Never jargon using and over-answering Avoid tone aconversational in speak Try to answer. an giving into pressurised feel not do – so say something of unsure are you If point your off drawn get to Try not point the to stick and sentences short in Answer it. with unhappy are you if answer your rephrase to ask can you remember interview, ataped In correct are position and name your sure Make questions sample for ask to afraid be not do interview television or aradio in partake to asked are you If later. back call and time some for ask to acceptable perfectly is it unprepared, are you If c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 6 / PAGE 31 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 6 / PAGE 32 • • • • • • • folder: information toincludeinyourmedia Below areanumberofsuggestions involved inyourcampaign. be compiledandreadilyavailabletopeople group. Informationonyourmediastrategycould resource accessibletoallmembersofyour Your groupshouldconsidercreatingamedia Resource aCampaign Media Compiling research, factsandcomparative studies supportive material:usefulstatistics,relevant campaign organisation andthebackgroundtoyour a shortpageoutliningthehistoryofyour your grouphashad cuttings fromanyinterviewormediacoverage answers a listofallthequestionslikelytobeaskedwith and theircontactdetails a recordofwhichjournalistsyouhavespokento local councillorsandTDs. press offices,politicalparties’ of localandnationalnewsdesks,Government a foldercontainingallthecontactinformation Areas ofinterestforvarious journalists • Do – Do’s andDon’ts • • Don’t – • • • • • them informedofevents Build relationshipswithjournalistsandkeep Where? Why?andHow? sure youletjournalistsknowWho?What?When? a lotofcompetitionforthespotlightsomake Assume themediawilljustturnup–thereis unprepared Agree toparticipateinaninterviewifyouare and arenotalwaysconsiderednewsworthy Remember demonstrationsarecommonplace - neverassumeotherwise Remember –‘EverythingisontheRecord’ Return callsoryoumaymissyourchance Be availablethroughouttheday topic, thiscoulddodamagetoyourcampaign misrepresented toprovideamoresensational reporting. Your messagecouldbe Be awareofpoorjournalismandinaccurate For what is done or learned by one class of women becomes, by virtue of their common womanhood, the property of all women. Elizabeth Blackwell, physician. First woman to receive “ an MD from an American College.

Tools and Resources c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 34 aims togiveeasyexamplesofwaysyoucanbeginlobby! The sectionisfulloftoolstohelpyoustartcampaigning!Fromletterwritingtipsideasonholdinganevent,thispartthehandbook TOOLS RESOURCES AND 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. writing toapolitician: Below areanumberofpointstorememberwhen decision-makers? to aletter toHow write

See sampleletter overleaf. added impact ask othergroupsandallies to signyourletterfor representative insupportof your campaignor ask themtosendasimilarletter tothe If youhavenetworkedwithother groups, continue lobbying again yourobjectives,andwillingnessto dissatisfied, draftafollowupletter, stating If youreceiveastandardletter, andare letter draft afollowupletterenclosingyouroriginal Ask forareply. Ifyoudonotreceiveareply, issue Offer thepersonfurtherinformationon the issue If meetingaTD,explainthelocalimpactof State wantyouthepersontodo supported byoneortwostatistics State theissueandwhatyouarelobbyingfor, name ofyourgroup,whoyourepresent In thefirstparagraphstatewhoyouare, be nolongerthanonepage Be brief,clearandtothepoint.Lettersshould working on the issue! the on working already are they if letter asupporting by sending work apolitician’s on Build Tip! Sample Lobbying Letter

Name: Address:

Dear Minister Cowen,

I am writing to express my concern about the Irish Governments’ continued lack of recognition of women in the Irish social welfare and employment structures.

Women have contributed substantially to the creation of Ireland’s wealth by juggling paid employment with unpaid care work; yet organisational structures and the structure of the social welfare system have not changed to accommodate women. This is not sustainable for society or desirable for women and their families.

The feminisation of poverty continues to rise, with 50% of women aged 65 years and older at risk of poverty compared to 36% of men. 95% of all qualified adults are women and the social welfare system reinforces women’s dependence on men for income. system affect everyone in unpaid care work, part-time and atypical workers, lone parents and qualified adults; the majority of whom are women.

Every person has the right to economic independence through employment or social welfare and this needs to be realised in your term of office.

I am calling on you Minister Cowen to work with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Sèamus Brennan T.D. and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Michèal Martin T.D. to make the following changes happen:

Recognition of Women’s Care Work Recognising the Labour Market Reality of Women’s Atypical Employment Pensions: Provision for Older Women without Individual Pension Rights

Looking forward to receiving your response on these issues.

Yours sincerely,

Signed Date

Minister Brian Cowen T.D. Dept of Finance, Government Buildings Upr Merrion St. Dublin 2

The problems in the 10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. an effectivesubmission: steps yourgroupwillneedtotakeinordermake a highimpactonpolicy-makers.Belowarethe A well-researchedandcostedsubmissioncanhave toHow draft asubmission

your issue Attach acasestudytohighlighttheeffectsof mail out,localnewspapers Don’t forgettopublicisethesubmission;email, happen iftheyarenotadopted Provide possiblesolutions,explainwhatcould Use graphsandchartswherepossible know asopposedtonice be suretoincludeonlywhatpeopleneed cite/reference currentandacceptedresearch Provide credibleevidenceforyourconcerns, lobbying document Base thesubmissiononinformationfromyour possible Identify theproblemandbeasconcise how longyouhavebeeninexistence State whoyouareandrepresent own guidelinesforwritingsubmissions Check toseeiftheauthorityhasprovidedtheir reading thisdocument? Identify therelevantauthority–whowillbe c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 35 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 36 consider whenmeetingwith decision-makers: appointment. Belowareanumber ofpointsto you canwriteaformalletterrequestingan representative tovisityourgroup.Alternatively projects youshouldconsiderinvitingyourlocal If youareinvolvedinlocalcommunitygroupsor meeting withdecision-makers from the most toHow get 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. tips forpresentingyoursubmission: presentations areforalistenership.Herefew different. Submissionsareforareadershipwhereas in awrittensubmission;howeverthestyleis The informationtobeincludedisthesameas ask yourgrouptopresentasubmissionthem. The Oireachtasorlocalauthoritycommittesmay toHow Present aSubmission Speak slowlyandclearly be asked and askthemtoconsiderquestionsyoumight Practice yourpresentationinfrontofgroup Use examples Keep thelanguagesimple,avoidjargon Use shortsentences Find outwhoisonthecommittee for themembersofcommittee Bring aonepagesummaryofyoursubmission 1. Things todobeforethemeeting: 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. In theMeeting: 5. 4. 3. 2.

delegation. Decidewhatneedstobesaid,who Have agroupmeetingandagreeon details are meetingwhichwillincludeyourcontact Prepare aninformationpackforthepersonyou campaign Prepare alistofwaysthispersonmayhelpyour group andguidethemeeting Appoint aspokesperson,whowillspeakforthe person youaremeeting Research -aimtobebetterinformedthanthe the mostexpertiseonissue will sayeachpointandwhoisthepersonwith personally inanyway? Does theissueimpacton decision-maker letters inlocalornationalnewspaper? campaign forexample;has there beenany Discuss thelevelofmediainterest inyour many votersareaffectedbythisissue If thereisanupcomingelection,mentionhow Try toestablish thepartypositiononissue interest groupsatalocalornationallevel Mention ifyourgrouphassupportfromother constituency Discuss howtheissuewillimpactontheir your campaign Explain howyouwouldlikethispersontohelp requested themeeting Explain thecurrentsituationandwhyyou 12. 11. 10. 9. Department. and advisorswithinthe Affairs. SeamusBrennan Minister forSocial&Family Other decision-makerstargetedwerethe the MinisterforFinanceBrianCowenTD. target –theGovernmentandspecifically campaign focusedaroundaspecific meetings withdecision-makers.The Reform Campaign During thecourseof CASE STUDY Send onfurtherinformation write downthekeypointsyouspokeon regardless oftheoutcomemeeting,and Send athankyounotetoyourrepresentative step! Listen. You mayreceiveadviceastoyournext Be direct and respond with reasoned argument , theNWCIheldmany Social Welfare > > > Houses oftheOireachtaswebsite,within24hours. Parliamentary Debatesandmorerecentlyonthe question andtheanswerinOfficialReportof A writtenrecordismaintainedofboththe about every5weeksduringaDáilsession. ‘Question Time’. Ministersanswerthesequestions Oral questionsareposedtotheMinisterduring Oral Questions questions canbeoralorwritten. on anissues/heisresponsiblefor. Parliamentary give aMinisteranopportunitytorespondpublicly public areinterestedin.Parliamentaryquestions serves tointroduceorfurtheradebatethatthe A Parliamentaryquestionisusuallytopicaland question toHow draft aparliamentary advance. Oral questionsmustbesubmittedfourdaysin each Dáilday. Five questionscanbenominatedforpriority within her/hisdepartment. Minister whoisheldaccountableforallactions to beaddressedtherelevantGovernment Oral questionsaskedbyDáildeputieshave oral questions.Anynumberofwrittenquestions and theyarepublishedinthesamemanneras These questionsareansweredbyawrittenreply Written contact theofficeofyourlocalTD. In ordertosubmitawrittenororalquestion, public concern. a particularissuethemoreitreflectslevelof can beasked;themorequestionsaskedabout even answered. even possibly and asked being it of likelihood the increases it as words of number a small to question your keep Try to Tip! purposes’. income willbeincludedforsocialinsurance be coveredunderClassSandthatalloftheir insurance inorderthatallchildminderswill for childmindingrelieftobelinkedsocial upcoming FinanceBillhewillmakeprovisions ‘To asktheMinisterforFinanceifin Independent T.D. TD, fromtheNWCI,askedbyJoeHiggins, to MinisterforFinanceMr. BrianCowen Parliamentary Questionforwrittenanswer QUESTION PARLIAMENTARY SAMPLE c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 37 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 38 • • • Types ofEvents: 4. 3. 2. 1. your eventinstages. volunteers. Thebestcourseofactionistoplan within yourgroupandcanpossiblyattract A successfuleventcanalsore-ignitemotivation toHow organise anevent can givepassers-byanopportunity tosigna Setting uptables:atableinyourarea people. in awaythatisaccessibletolargenumbersof children orfilmscanillustrateyourmessage example photographs,paintings,drawingsby Exhibitions: Anexhibitionofvisualmaterialfor number ofsupporterstoparticipate. publicity foryourcampaignandallowsalarge Marches: Amarchisagoodwaytogain and informationathandtodistribute. issue andtheworkofyourgroup. Haveleaflets petition, joinyourcampaign orlearnaboutyour chairs, tablesetc day? banners,loudspeakers,microphones, What kindofequipmentwillyouneedonthe how towriteapressrelease’). them knowabouttheevent(seesectionon‘ Write tolocalandnationaljournalistslet Don’t forgettoadvertiseyoureventinadvance. event. prominent politiciantoattendorspeakatyour Consider askingalocalrepresentativeor task todrawuptheirownchecklistandappoint your event.Askeachpersonwithaspecific An eventchecklistisanessentialtoolfororganising Event checklist: example ofabasicchecklist: a coordinatortooverseetheselists.Hereisan Sample Checklist

Registration & attendees Meet &Greetspeakers sign-in sheet on theday– Registration ofattendees Media informationpack Running OrderofEvent Book photographer stand Organise information Media Calls Press release Advertise Event for Journalists) (‘Date foryourDiary’ Press NoticeOut supporters/members Mail outofinvitationsto Arrange Speakers Check DisabilityAccess Book Venue Activity Responsible Person Deadline

participants togetknoweachother. to removetensionfromtheroom,relaxandallow Anicebreakerisanactivitydesigned ‘icebreaker’. meeting. Agoodwaytostartanymeetingiswithan number oftipstoconsiderwhendecidingholda or membersofthecommunity. Overleafarea organisation andmeetingswithothergroups just decision-makersbutmeetingswithinyour require manymeetingswithpeople,not By itsverynaturelobbyingandcampaigningwill toHow HoldMeetings

them to feed this back to the group. group. the to back this feed to them

related to the work that they do. Ask Ask do. they that work the to related

three phrases, quotations or sayings sayings or quotations phrases, three

paper. Ask each person to write down down write to person each Ask paper.

Give each participant a pen and some some and pen a participant each Give

personal interaction within the group. group. the within interaction personal

This icebreaker allows for greater greater for allows icebreaker This

‘The Personal Philosophy Icebreaker’ Icebreaker’ Philosophy Personal ‘The Example of stepsyoushouldconsider: meetings orcommunitythereareanumber In ordertohelpyourgroupgetthemostoutofstaff 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. by when clarify who is responsible for carrying them out & made. If specific actions have been agreed, what decisions have been taken & agreements End the meeting by reminding everyone present that they are not a waste of time made arising out of the last meeting – to prove Begin a meeting stating what decisions were them to email or write to you in the future to allow people express their opinions or ask Suggest an informal discussion after the meeting amount of time for discussion sticking to the agenda and only allowing a certain Try to manage the meeting by keeping it short, Designate a note taker order and stick to the agenda Appoint a chairperson to keep the meeting in and let topics follow in a natural order Have an agenda, which will guide the meeting c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 39 c

A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland STAGE 7 / PAGE 40

Sample Press Release Press Sample

NWCI Communications Officer, 01 878 7248 878 01 Officer, Communications NWCI

Contact:

particular on marginalised women living in poverty’’ concluded Ms O’Connor. Ms concluded poverty’’ in living women marginalised on particular

today. It is about time the Government changed its priorities and focused on women, and in in and women, on focused and priorities its changed Government the time about is today. It

‘’The UN Report highlights the serious implications of inequality for many women in Ireland Ireland in women many for inequality of implications serious the highlights Report UN ‘’The

increase the number of women in decision-making positions in Ireland. in positions decision-making in women of number the increase

continued. The NWCI has long been calling on all political parties to introduce measures to to measures introduce to parties political all on calling been long has NWCI The continued.

At this rate, it would take 370 years for the percentage in the Dáil to reach 50%’’ she she 50%’’ reach to Dáil the in percentage the for years 370 take would it rate, this At

‘’51% of our population are women, but only 13.3% of those elected to the Dáil are women. women. are Dáil the to elected those of 13.3% only but women, are population our of ‘’51%

no surprise to the NWCI’’ stated Ms O’Connor. O’Connor. Ms stated NWCI’’ the to surprise no

positions, in comparison to men. ‘’The result of the Gender Empowerment Measure comes as as comes Measure Empowerment Gender the of result ‘’The men. to comparison in positions,

Ireland 16th. The measure relates to women’s representation, and women in decision-making decision-making in women and representation, women’s to relates measure The 16th. Ireland

The NWCI also highlighted the ‘Gender Empowerment Measure’ in the Report, which places places which Report, the in Measure’ Empowerment ‘Gender the highlighted also NWCI The

1990s. Sadly, this situation is not changing, despite Ireland’s unprecedented growth rates.’’ growth unprecedented Ireland’s despite changing, not is situation Sadly, this 1990s.

are women. The fact is that women have been at greater risk of poverty than men, since the the since men, than poverty of risk greater at been have women that is fact The women. are

Policy at the NWCI stated: ‘’In Ireland, the majority of people living below the poverty line line poverty the below living people of majority the Ireland, ‘’In stated: NWCI the at Policy

Poverty Index’, which looks at people living below the poverty line. Orla O’Connor, Head of of Head O’Connor, Orla line. poverty the below living people at looks which Index’, Poverty

it is no coincidence therefore, that Ireland drops to 16th place on the ‘Human and Income Income and ‘Human the on place 16th to drops Ireland that therefore, coincidence no is it

that women are earning significantly less than men in Ireland (40% less). The NWCI feels that that feels NWCI The less). (40% Ireland in men than less significantly earning are women that

including ‘Estimated Earned Income’, places Ireland 14th (UK is 9th). The Report highlights highlights Report The 9th). is (UK 14th Ireland places Income’, Earned ‘Estimated including

The ‘Gender Related Index’, which compares men and women, in a number of key areas, areas, key of number a in women, and men compares which Index’, Related ‘Gender The

left behind. left

nations. The report has shown that this is particularly true for women, who have clearly been been clearly have who women, for true particularly is this that shown has report The nations.

measures quality of life, our country remains one of the most unequal societies of all western western all of societies unequal most the of one remains country our life, of quality measures

Despite the fact that Ireland is placed 10th in the ‘Human Development Index’, which which Index’, Development ‘Human the in 10th placed is Ireland that fact the Despite

focus on women, particularly women living in poverty in Ireland. in poverty in living women particularly women, on focus

Development Report. The NWCI has called on the Government to change its priorities and and priorities its change to Government the on called has NWCI The Report. Development

of Policy at the National Women’s Council of Ireland after the launch of the UN Human Human UN the of launch the after Ireland of Council Women’s National the at Policy of

lack of action and commitment to women’s rights in Ireland,’’ stated Orla O’Connor, Head Head O’Connor, Orla stated Ireland,’’ in rights women’s to commitment and action of lack

‘’The results of the UN Human Development Report is further evidence of the Government’s Government’s the of evidence further is Report Development Human UN the of results ‘’The

IRELAND GETS RICHER, AS WOMEN LOSE OUT LOSE WOMEN AS RICHER, GETS IRELAND

For immediate release immediate For

RELEASE PRESS 16 July 2004 July 16 APPENDIX 1 The Legislative Process c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 42 THE LEGISLATIVETHE PROCESS 3. 2. 1. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. The BillisthenpresentedtotheDáilorSeanadbyMinisterfordiscussion.Ifconsultation The BillisthensenttoTDsandSenatorsfordiscussion. A MinisterwillmakeaproposaltotheCabinetandifagreedupon,textofBillbedrawnup. If theBillispassedthenitbecomes anAct. either signtheBillintolawor referittotheSupremeCourttestitsConstitutionality. When boththeDáilandSeanadpassBill,itisthen senttothePresident,wheres/hecan The BillisthensenttotheSeanadforfurtherdiscussion. The ReportStage-thisinvolvesfurtherdiscussionandvoting onamendments. Seanad orDáilitcouldbeallmembersoftheDáil.It is herethatamendmentsareproposed. The nextstageistheCommitteeStage.usuallymadeupofselectmembers The OppositionpartiesthencommentontheBill. proceeded thedraftingofaBill,thenMinisterwilldiscussoutcomethisprocess. USEFUL RESOURCES c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 44 to assistindevelopingyourlobbyingcampaignandgatheringpracticalinformation. This usefulresourcessectionaimstoprovidewomen’s groupswithalistofwebsiteaddress,contactdetailsandrecommendedreading RESOURCES USEFUL Press Offices theGovernment and of Political Parties the Oireachtas: Housesof The Éireann andSeanadÉireann. Dáil

The Workers’ Party Socialist Party Sinn Féin The GreenParty Progressive Democrats The LabourParty Fine Gael Fianna Fáil Government PressOffice Political Party Members oftheOireachtas Seanad Éireann Dáil Éireann Leinster House,Dublin2,Ireland Houses oftheOireachtas, Name 874 0716 677 2592 618 4276 618 4088 618 3615 618 3462 618 3379 618 3297 678 9118 Tel (01) (01) 618+extensionnumber 1890 732623 1890 337889 (01) 6183000 Telephone andFaxNumber 874 8702 677 2592 618 4210 618 4190 679 4162 618 4151 618 4144 618 4164 676 3302 Fax (01) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] e-mail [email protected] [email protected] www.irlgov.ie [email protected] Website/ EmailAddress Government Advisory BodiesandAgencies To orderacopyoftheIrishMediaContactsDirectory, telephone(01)2845892. Irish MediaContactsDirectory(2005)publishedbyInformationServicesP.O. Box8250,DunLaoghaire,Co.Dublin,Ireland. Media Resource: CPA: CombatPovertyAgency CSO: CentralStatisticsOffice NDA: NationalDisabilityAuthority on RacismandInterculturalism NCCRI: NationalConsultativeCommittee Comhairle Equality Authority NESF: NationalEconomicandSocialForum Council NESC: NationalEconomicandSocial Information andSupport OASIS: OnlineAccesstoServices, Name on waystopreventandeliminate povertyandsocialexclusion. Combat Povertyisthesolenational statutoryorganisationinIrelanddedicatedtoadvising public authoritiesandfordeveloping thestatisticalpotentialofadministrativerecords Specialist nationalstatisticalagencyresponsibleforco-ordinating officialstatisticsofother codes andstandardsaimedatpromotingequalityforpeople withdisabilities. It alsoundertakesresearchondisabilityinIrelandandmonitors theimplementationof The NDAisthestatutoryagencywhichadvisesGovernment ondisabilitypolicy. government andnon-governmentorganisations. An independentbodyfocusingonracismandinterculturalism bringingtogether policy andresearchinformation. advice andadvocacyonsocialservices.Comhairleprovides citizensinformation,social Comhairle isthenationalsupportagencyresponsiblefor theprovisionofinformation, family status,sexualorientationandmembershipoftheTraveller community. discrimination onthegroundsofgender, age,disability, race,religion,maritalstatus, The EqualityAuthorityisthestatutoryagencyworkingtowardseliminationof achieving equalityandsocialinclusion NESF monitorsandevaluatestheimplementationofpoliciesprogrammesaimedat Government departments. is madeupofnomineesfromthesocialpartnersaswellrepresentatives NESC advisestheGovernmentoneconomicandsocialdevelopment.TheCouncil your rights,theGovernmentofIrelandandotherpublicservices. OASIS isaGovernmentwebsite,itprovidesinformationonvarietyoftopicsincluding Function www.cpa.ie www.cso.ie www.nda.ie www.nccri.ie www.comhairle.ie www.equality.ie www.nesf.ie www.nesc.ie www.oasis.gov.ie Website Address c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 45 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 46 Information onEurope European Anti-PovertyNetwork European Institutions” “Definitive guidetolobbyingthe Conditions Improvement ofLivingandWorking European Foundationforthe European Women’s Lobby(EWL) Europa Name www.eapn.org or Ireland www.eapn.ie www.euractiv.com Fax: (01)2826456/2824209 Tel: (01)2043100 Dublin 18Ireland Wyattville Road,Loughlinstown, Conditions Improvement ofLivingandWorking European Foundationforthe Email: [email protected] Fax: +3222198451 Tel +3222179020 www.womenlobby.org www.europa.eu.int Website /Address The officialEuropeanUnionwebsite Information Provided poverty. groups fightingfortheeradicationof and EuropeanAgendatolink aim istoputpovertyonthenational European anti-povertynetwork,whose This istheIrishbranchof guide tolobbyinginEurope 2005editionoftheBurson-Marsteller managing changeinEurope. conditions, industrialrelationsand and expertise–onlivingworking body, providinginformation,advice The FoundationisaEuropeanUnion organisations acrossEurope. brings togetherover4000women’s A non-governmentalorganisationthat the institutionsandpoliciesofEU. offering comprehensivedetailsabout free mediaskillsmanual. a widevarietyoftopicsincluding Resources andinformationguideson conducted inBrussels. Explanation ofthewaylobbyingis facility. documents andextensiveresearch information sources.EuropeanPolicy the Foundation’s ownandexternal researchers andvisitorsaccessto The InformationCentreprovidesstaff, developments. and informationonequalitypolicy women’s groupsacrossEurope Information andresourcesfor people intheEU. Information aboutthestructuresand Useful for Your thoughts… Your c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 47 c A Guide to Effective Lobbying for Women’s Groups in Ireland APPENDICES / PAGE 48 Your thoughts… Your www.nwci.ie

The National Women’s Council of Ireland 9 Marlborough Court Marlborough Street Dublin 1 t: 01 8787248 f: 01 8787301 [email protected]

Reg Charity No: CHY 11760. Date of Publication: SEPTEMBER 2006