Moira Aston – Canoeing Ireland CEO
‘Good governance is about balance and equality. Within the sport of Canoeing we have made excellent progress in this area over the past couple of years, primarily through the Bridge the Gap programme. Since it’s inception, the programme has identified outstanding women within the sport who have the desire to step into leadership roles. The election of our first female President, Lynda Byron, in October 2021 was a landmark moment, both in terms of leadership and visibility. The support Lynda has received from the membership since her election is a testament to the culture of inclusion which has always existed within the sport.
As the first female CEO I work hard to ensure that the staff team is well balanced. When opportunities arise they are open to everyone with the desire and ambition to progress. As a team we consistently reflect on potential biases, both conscious and unconscious. We endeavour to demonstrate our values of openness, transparency, support and inclusivity in our day-to-day work. The friendship, support and acceptance of difference makes Canoeing Ireland a great place to work.
Although the gender profile of our membership is improving, there is still an imbalance, with more males than females in the sport. Achieving gender equity will be a focus area for us throughout the term of the current strategic plan. The Bridge the Gap Ambassadors, led by our Women in Sport lead, Emer Carton, are working miracles by promoting the positive and providing programmes and opportunities in all areas of the sport.
Canoeing is a sport for all ages, all genders and all abilities. As CEO I am passionate about ensuring that anyone with a desire to participate is offered an opportunity. The mission is not to exclude, but to create a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for all.’
