There has been a 53% increase in the number of women contesting for seats compared to the General Election four years ago.

Women for Election has confirmed 248 women will be running in the upcoming General Election.

Women for Election spokesperson Katie Deegan says it's important their voice is heard.

“It's an opportunity for voters to vote for change,” she said.

“Voters have never had more choice.

“For far too long the voices and experiences of women have been missing from our democracy, so this election gives voters the chance to change that by electing more women to represent us all.”

Ireland is 104th in the world for the number of women in parliament.