Irish Women’s History Project
The creation of the Department of Taoiseach database was a key initiative within the Irish Women’s History Project (1997-2001).
It aimed to document women’s roles and experiences in Ireland from 1922 to 1966. This database emerged from a comprehensive survey conducted by the project, which meticulously examined records from the Department of the Taoiseach for references to women.
Department of the Taoiseach’s database
Legislation and discussions on issues affecting women are prominent throughout the Department of the Taoiseach’s records. The collection includes significant material on topics considered at cabinet and government level, covering a wide range of political, social, and administrative issues.
Although the online database is no longer available, its contents documented many notable women who played important roles in Irish society. Researchers could search by name to view references and expanded descriptions of files relating to their work and influence.
Examples include:
Kathleen Lynn: a doctor, suffragist, and revolutionary, known for her role in the Easter Rising and women’s rights advocacy. In 1919, she founded Saint Ultan’s Children’s Hospital.
TSCH/S /1369/10: Civil War Prisoners, 1923
Louie Bennett: A suffragist, trade unionist, and pacifist. She co‐founded the Irish Women’s Suffrage Federation in 1911.
TSCH/S/ 5553A: Committee on Unemployment, 1927
TSCH/S/9880: Women, Position under Constitution, 1937
Hilda Tweedy: A founding member of the Irish Housewives Association, she was instrumental in advocating for women’s rights and social issues.
TSCH/S/16952A: International Alliance of Women, Congress, Dublin, 1961
These women, among many others, are documented in the Department of Taoiseach records, this database showcases their contributions to social and political change and the advancement of women’s rights in Ireland.
Accessing the Database
A complete PDF copy of the database (over 1,000 pages; approx. 10 MB) is held by the National Archives and can be provided to researchers on request. To request a copy, please contact: query@nationalarchives.ie.