Laois Federation ICA women's group has the youngest president in Ireland

The Irish Countrywomen's Association is "going through a bit of a resurgence" according to the Laois ICA Federation President, and she is living proof.

Deirdre Dunne from Portarlington is a member of Mountmellick ICA guild.

She is the youngest ICA Federation President in Ireland, at the age of 37.

Deirdre spoke to the Leinster Express / Laois Live, at the Laois Live Well Expo held on April 23 in Portlaoise College.

"We have a lot of younger members now. I am the youngest president in the country, and possibly in Laois, ever since the federation was founded in 1950. 

"There is a sense that it's an assocation for older women, that's not true. We have a lot of younger people. Our youngest member is aged 21, the oldest is 91.

"It's the whole integration thing. The younger members are teaching others digital literacy, graphic design, photography. In turn they are learning crafting and baking. The tips and tricks we get is incredible. It has progressed beyond the traditional activities. It is about being part of a community.

"I think there is a maternal need for guidance, for making crafts, in a world that's gone mad. There is a sense of community. A lot of people are isolated," Deirdre Dunne said.

Laois Federation ICA has about 200 members in 12 guilds.

"We always welcome new members. The federation is 75 years old this year. We hope to have a celebration at the end of the summer," she said.

Read also: Rare chance to catch Laois exhibition by Mountmellick artist

The guilds are in Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Killanure in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Stradbally, Clonad, Castletown, Borris-in-Ossory, Clough, Spink, Ballylinan, Killabban and Arles.

For more information see www.ica.ie Email the Laois Federation President on de.dunne@gmail.com