Today is International Women’s Day (IWD) and it is a day that has been observed since in the early 1900's. Celebrated on the 8th of March each year, it is the global day connecting all women around the world and inspiring them to achieve their full potential. IWD is now an official holiday in many countries such as Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Tajikistan and Vietnam. In some countries IWD has the equivalent status of Mother's Day where small gifts are given to mothers and grandmothers. The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, has marked the day by claiming that Ireland's gender equality legislation is among the most progressive anywhere in the world. He also stated that women had contributed significantly to the achievements of the Irish economy and that the Government was fully committed to their further advancement as key decision-makers in Irish society.

Happy International Women’s Day!