A social media controversy has erupted concerning the lack of gender balance at the annual MacGill Summer School in Donegal.

The ratio of male to female speakers on discussion panels has not gone unnoticed, but director Joe Mulholland has claimed that it it often difficult to find people with the "correct aptitude" for the discussions that take place.

Lise Hand of The Times Ireland edition, a veteran of many MacGill Summer Schools in the past, says this argument is "nonsense."

"The most cursory of research will throw up plenty of women who are eminently capable of discussing topics such as Brexit, the economy, general elections etc. An argument like that won't wash in this day and age."

"There are plenty of women who enjoy the experience of taking part in debates and discussions. It's just a lack of effort."

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