Gender Balance in Irish Traditional & Folk Music

FairPlé aims to achieve gender balance in the production, performance, promotion, and development of Irish traditional and folk music. We advocate for equal opportunity and balanced representation for all. 

In June 2020, allegations of sexual assault, harassment and coercion in the Irish traditional music scene came to light, through the #misefosta movement on social media.

FairPlé wishes to acknowledge and thank the courageous actions of young women within the #misefosta movement. We have a shared aim of making traditional music a more equitable and safer place for women to play, work and express themselves. 

If you see anyone acting inappropriately towards another musician/participant, please call them out if it is safe to do so. We all have a role in stopping inappropriate behaviour and creating a safe environment for everyone. 

If you experienced sexual assault, harassment or coercion, FairPlé would firstly like to advise you that none of it was your fault. You did nothing to deserve it. Please, mind yourself and do what you need to do to care for yourself. Here are some resources to help you.

Here is a report on our activities from 2018 - 2020.

Here is a rolling report on our current phase of policy work from January 2021 onwards.

Here is our anti-harassment policy.

To view our recommendations for a “Safe and Respectful Working Environment for the Arts” brought before the Oireachtas Joint Committee in November 2021, click here.

FairPlé Music CLG-Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in Dublin, Ireland.

Registration No: 629089

Registered office: Edenville, Clifton Road, Montenotte, Cork.