O’Gorman says Green tide rising at annual conference

The Green Party is focused on rebuilding its political presence, citing recent successes in the United Kingdom as a source of momentum, despite significant losses in the last general election. Party leader Roderic O’Gorman accused the current government of failing to deliver on key promises and of prioritizing performative gestures over substantive action.

Green Party Conference Focuses on Rebuilding

O’Gorman pointed to Hannah Spencer’s recent by-election win in the Manchester constituency of Gordon and Denton as evidence of a rising “Green tide.” He expressed hope that the party can capitalize on this momentum in upcoming by-elections in Dublin Central and Galway West.

However, O’Gorman acknowledged the party faces a substantial rebuilding effort following the loss of 11 of its 12 seats in the last general election.

Government Accusations

O’Gorman criticized the current government, alleging a retreat from key environmental issues and accusing them of “gas-lighting the electorate” over unfulfilled promises, particularly in disability services and the provision of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) in schools. He further claimed the government was scapegoating vulnerable people regarding migration and raiding a climate and nature fund.

He described the government’s approach to protecting children online – banning under-16s from social media – as a “woolly commitment,” amounting to little more than lobbying the EU and running a pilot program.

Policy Priorities and Strategic Plan

The Green Party’s newly elected deputy leader, Hazel Chu, highlighted the need for improved public transport, citing projects like the Waterford-Wexford rail line, the Finglas Luas, and Galway BusConnects. She also emphasized the importance of safe cycle routes.

O’Gorman outlined a new strategic plan focused on regaining seats at the local, national, and European levels. He stressed the need to sharpen the party’s message, grow membership, and improve fundraising.

Member Perspectives

Senator Malcolm Noonan emphasized the party’s focus on rebuilding “from the grassroots back up,” recalling a similar effort in 2011. Donnacha Geoghegan, a party member from Dublin North-west, expressed optimism about replicating the party’s recent successes in the UK.

Pace Borza Butterly acknowledged past disappointments and a perception that the Green Party was unfairly blamed for policies implemented during its previous time in government.

O’Gorman also commented on international affairs, criticizing US President Donald Trump’s policies and suggesting his actions, including recent bombings in Iran, were motivated by domestic political concerns and a desire to distract from other issues.