Firsts for Irish Women - Olive Collins

Though for centuries it was believed that the proper role for women was in the home, there were always those who had the courage to carve out the lives they wanted. Here are the stories of six women who broke barriers and became first in their field in Ireland.

Features Catherine Hayes, Ireland's first female opera singer. Eleanora Fleury, first woman to qualify as a doctor. Lilian Bland built her own biplane and was Ireland's first female pilot. Eileen Kennedy, Ireland's first female judge. Brenda Fricker was the first Irish woman to win an Oscar. Mary Robinson became Ireland's first female president.

Against all odds they led the way.