Following the unexpected departure of Eamon Ryan, the Green Party leadership is set to witness an intense competition, with Senator Pippa Hackett and Integration Minister Roderic O’Gorman predicted to be in the running. Backing for Hackett as potential leader was extended from two Green Party colleagues on Wednesday morning, conditional on her decision to vie for the role.
Green Party Senator, Pauline O’Reilly affirmed her support for Hackett in the leadership contest on Tuesday morning, highlighting her unique position as “the sole representative from outside Dublin”. During her appearance on Virgin Media, O’Reilly emphasized the need for reshuffling within the party in order to rectify the false impression that the Green Party is out of touch with life beyond Dublin city.
State Minister Ossian Smyth also expressed his endorsement for Hackett, as he expressed his own aspiration to be nominated for the deputy leader post on Morning Ireland. He stated his belief in Hackett’s capability to spearhead the party, encouraging her to contemplate on embarking on the leadership race.
The surprise announcement of Ryan’s resignation as the party leader on Monday morning was followed by an equally unexpected resignation by deputy leader Catherine Martin, who declared that she will refrain from participating in the forthcoming leadership contest.
Roderic O’Gorman is perceived as a likely successor to the leadership role by some party colleagues.
The leadership campaign is slated to commence on Wednesday morning. Using a one member, one vote system, the victor will be chosen by more than 4,000 members, spanning both the Republic and regions north of the Border.
Speculation is rife amongst certain quarters that the forthcoming leader is likely to be a incumbent Green Party Cabinet member.