Not Only a New Door, but Possibly a New Changing Room

Ireland have appointed their first women referee at top level.

"Helen O'Reilly has become Ireland's first top-level female referee in a move that could eventually see her officiate in Pro12 and European Champions Cup matches.

The Irish Rugby Football Union has made O'Reilly, 39, the first female appointment to its national panel.

Dubliner O'Reilly officiated at this year's women's World Cup in France.

"Helen's appointment is based solely on merit," said the IRFU's referee development director Owen Doyle.

"As the first female referee to make the panel she must be congratulated."

The women's World Cup official has been hailed as one of the best female referees and will now step up to take charge at Ulster Bank League matches.

"Her hard work, dedication and strong refereeing performances have propelled her into the top handful of female referees in the world and into the national panel here in Ireland," added Doyle"

Presumably she would want her own changing room unless there were female touch judges.

Well done Ms. O'Reilly; it will certainly cut down the offensive language used around the pitch.

Following in the footsteps of Claire Hodnett, England's first woman appointed to the National Panel

I didn't know Ireland had any referees