Sponsored by Merry’s Gastropub Dungarvan
The Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber has made history by launching Ireland’s first-ever Menopause in the Workplace Employer Support Pack, sponsored by Merry’s Gastropub Dungarvan. This groundbreaking initiative, launched by Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mary Butler TD, puts the spotlight on a critical issue affecting the national workforce: menopause in the workplace.
With 30% of female employees experiencing the effects of menopause, and the expectation for businesses to soon be required to implement formal menopause policies, this comprehensive resource is timely and essential. It equips business owners, managers, and HR professionals with the knowledge to understand menopause’s impact on staff performance, comfort, and overall well-being—ultimately fostering more inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Minister Mary Butler TD praised the Chamber’s leadership, stating: “I am honoured to launch Ireland’s first Menopause in the Workplace Employer Support Pack. Menopause is often overlooked in workplace policies, despite affecting a significant portion of our workforce. This resource is a crucial step forward in creating understanding and supportive environments, helping women continue to thrive in their careers. I was also delighted to work with my colleague in the Department of Health, Minister Stephen Donnelly to secure free HRT for women in the recent budget.”
A Department of Health survey recently found that 82% of adults believe menopause is poorly understood in the workplace, with 90% agreeing that employers need to better grasp the issue. Recognising this, the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber is paving the way for positive change.
Oren Byrne, President of the Chamber, shared: “From our annual (award-winning) event, ‘Menopause – The Case for Change’, it was clear there was a hunger for real tools to support women at work. We are thrilled to have Minister Butler launch this resource, which is a game-changer for workplace wellness and inclusion.”
Emilene Stafford of Merry’s Gastropub, sponsor of the pack, emphasised: “We’re proud to back this groundbreaking initiative. Supporting inclusive workplaces is essential to the success and well-being of all employees. This pack will make a real difference, and we’re delighted to be part of this pioneering project.”
The Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber recently won the Menopause Workplace Excellence Award 2024 for Best Small Business and was also named Chamber of the Year 2023/24, reaffirming its dedication to championing workplace equality and wellness across Ireland.
