The chair of the Rose of Tralee festival says allowing Trans and married women to take part is a reflection of how society continues to change.
Roscommon native Anthony O'Gara believes the move is a natural evolution with an increased age limit of 29 also introduced.
Following discussions with former participants the CEO says it was decided to clarify that the contest was open to anyone who identified as a woman.
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The festival also hopes to run community selection nights which can be used to raise money for local charities.
Speaking on the Joe Finnegan show the event chair says it's a major step for the contest and hopes to welcome Trans women to the festival in 2022.
