Women are more vulnerable to poverty in their later years, the Irish Pensions Board warned today.
A longer life expectancy, retirement at 65, fragmented careers and generally lower wages all contribute to the problem, according to the board.
A study also found almost 80 per cent of women feel they won't be able to survive on a state pension.
Pensions coverage for the female workforce stands at 47.5 per cent, compared to 54.2 per cent for men.
Women attending the Woman's World Show at the RDS will this week be targeted by the Pensions Board to encourage them to start planning for their financial independence in retirement.
"Our research tells us that 79 per cent of women don't feel that they will be able to survive on the state pension of €193.30 per week when they retire," said Mary Hutch, of the Pensions Board.
"The reality is that if you start a pension early, you won't have to contribute huge amounts over the course of your working life to provide you with a comfortable retirement.
However if you ignore the issue and start a pension late in life, you'll have to contribute significant amounts which will impact on your lifestyle."