Mary O'Rourke to feature in new book on women in influence

Athlone TD Mary O'Rourke and Delvin's Patricia Callan, Director of the Small Firms Association are profiled in Ellen Gunning's new book 'Capital Women of Influence'. The book was launched last week by Senator David Norris in the Writers Centre, Parnell Square, Dublin. The book tells the uplifting stories of 13 women from all around the country ranging in age from early 30s to early 80s from the worlds of art, politics business, media, charity and the community. The women are: Pauline Bewick (Artist), Betty Ashe (Community regeneration); Caroline Downey (Childline); Mary O'Rourke TD, Anne Harris (Deputy Ed Sunday Independent, Christina Noble (Foundation); Danuta Gray (CEO 02); Eibhlin Byrne (former Dublin Lord Mayor); Gina Quinn (CEO Dublin Chamber of Commerce); Ivana Bacik (Senator); Maree Morrissey (Editor Irish Entrepreneur); Patricia Callan (CEO Small Firms Assoc) and Veronica Dunne (Opera Singer). The launch was very well attended and included most of the women (Patricia Callan and Danuta Gray could not attend). Senator David Norris regaled the crowd with tales of the women, the majority of whom he knows well. "They truly are inspirational women," he said "and this wonderful book should be useful reading for Christmas to lift the spirits of the entire nation." The author Ellen Gunning presents a weekly Mediascope programme on 103.2 Dublin City FM and this book was written after a series of the same name was broadcast on the station over the summer months. "These women all have tremendous energy levels, amazing ability and great personalities. They are all, undoubtedly high achievers. They are also genuinely nice people. It really was a pleasure having a cuppa and a chat with them and they all have great stories to tell. I am fascinated and inspired by each and every one of them," she said.