Miss Universe Ireland 2017 is slated to be held on 31st August 2017 in the Round Room of the Mansion House, and the winner will then compete at Miss Universe Pageant 2017 to be held later this year.

The Irish models are generally more recognised for their charm, great sense of humour and exotic good looks, but Ireland's newest Miss Universe pageant boss, Brittany Mason, is about to change all that.

The former model and Miss Indiana USA had only a few days left to find an unknown girl among the highways and byways to represent Ireland at the Miss Universe finals - and she believes she has unearthed some hidden gems.

Speaking about her own intentions, Ms Mason said that in addition to the bikini section of the competition, the girls will also be asked questions on a range of topical issues, such as the challenges Brexit poses to Ireland.

"We want to address issues that are relevant in Ireland and the interview is not going to be easy. We want to know where they stand on certain issues that are relevant in this country", said Brittany.

As part of a new feature of the show, Ms Mason is also welcoming the public to join in the fun: "We are going to ask the people of Ireland what they want to know from these contestants so they can submit questions to ask in advance."

Mason also believes that no woman should be made to feel ashamed of their body, saying: "I don't feel that we should be shunned and ashamed for showing our bodies. It’s a beautiful thing, and we are promoting health and fitness and body diversity as well”.

She further added, "I want to create more of a sense of community among women where we are not tearing each other apart. In this competition, we are supporting each other and we are becoming better. And also we are lifting each other up”.