Hazel Chu, the previous Lord Mayor of Dublin, has publicly supported Roderic O’Gorman, Minister for Children and Integration, in his run for leadership within the Green Party. As a result, over half of the 23 Green Party councillors now rally behind Mr Gorman, alongside four members of the Oireachtas.
However, competition is fierce as Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Agriculture, has a support base of four Oireachtas members and one councillor, with the possibility of an additional two councillors and various election candidates. The ultimate decision, however, will be made by the party’s 4,000 members using a ‘one member, one vote’ system.
Following Eamon Ryan’s announcement of his departure from his post as Minister for the Environment, a leadership race officially commenced this morning. Pippa Hackett, an Offaly-based senator, voiced her opinion on Midlands 103fm this morning, saying Mr Ryan’s exit gave the party an opportunity for a “new beginning”.
She clarified her stance by saying, “We certainly need this new beginning”. Reflecting on the recent local election results and the loss of two MEPs, she highlighted the necessity to garner support from rural Ireland and other cities, moving away from a Dublin-centered perspective. With her beef and sheep farming background, she believes her diverse experience will help her connect better with people outside of Dublin.
Ms Hackett has dismissed the idea that she may struggle to secure election in the tri-seat Offaly constituency during the forthcoming general election. She argues against the perception that victory is out of her reach.
“If I manage to assume the leadership role, make the Green Party and its policies more relatable and cost-effective for citizens, I truly believe people are inclined towards the right choice. If I can pull that off successfully, then I believe it will rally support for my campaign,” she declared confidently.
Furthermore, she remarked, “To say that my election to the County Offaly seat is predetermined and beyond my reach, in any sense of the term, is a fallacy. I find myself in a similar situation as many of my fellow party members across the entire nation.”