The two contenders for the Green Party leadership, Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O’Gorman and Minister of State for Agriculture Pippa Hackett, have expressed the need for the party to address its “image issue” and get into “election mode”. This statement was made during the final leadership hustings that took place on Sunday following Eamon Ryan’s announcement of stepping down.
With a potential general election looming at the end of 2024, both candidates used this platform to motivate members of the party. This follows the revelation that Fine Gael has set September 22nd as their deadline for all candidate selection conventions, fueling rumours about either a late October or a mid-November election.
After local and European elections, the Executive Council of Fine Gael has asked all selection conventions for Fine Gael Dáil to take place by the 22nd of September, according to an official spokesperson. This ensures adequate time for new candidates to prepare, undergo training, and build up their profile before the general election expected to take place on or before March 22nd, 2025.
Asserting the need for the Green party to be actively engaged with electorate issues to win seats and implement their policies, Mr O’Gorman suggested making greater use of data through focus groups and polling to help shape the party’s message.
Meanwhile, Ms Hackett emphasised on addressing the party’s “image problem”, implying that the party has conveyed an impression of being judgmental and disconnected. She cited comments from average citizens referring to the party as ‘preachy’, ‘Dublin-centric’, and ‘out-of-touch’.
“Despite the dedication and quality of candidates across the nation, many people struggled to look beyond the party’s logo and name. Hence, a number of our election candidates stood little chance,” she expressed.
“We’ve formed an image problem and if anyone is under the impression otherwise, they’re mistaken. Yes, while much of the cliche assumptions circulating are ill-founded, they inaccurately represent who we are and our objectives. Yet, they persist and need to be tackled.
“Just waving off these adverse perceptions will not dismiss them but rather reinforce them. We’ve wronged individuals by suggesting that their lifestyle choices, such as burning turf, driving their cars, consuming meat, air travel or being a particular type of farmer are inappropriate. This needs to change.
“We should reconnect with the populace and gain insight into their specific fears and issues. If we don’t address this basic concern, we won’t be a worthwhile party for consideration, let alone aligning with any political factions.”
She also expressed her belief that the Green Party ought to pay more attention to the needs of the people rather than policy. She stated, “The policies are established. Now, it’s time to make them beneficial for the people as not everyone recognises or experiences their advantages. The Green Party needs to focus more on relatability in the future.”
The declaration of the new Green Party leader will be made public on July 8th, Monday.