Good day.
The uncertainty surrounding the Green Party’s success in the upcoming general election is palpable. The question is not just about the number of seats they may lose, but the impact their diminished strength may have on the formation of the new government post-elections.
The Green Party have been increasingly assertive in their efforts to secure a place in the electorate’s decision-making process. This was clearly seen on Tuesday with party leader Roderic O’Gorman and former leader Eamon Ryan reiterating at every opportunity that their party is the only one capable of addressing key issues.
O’Gorman highlighted the importance of the Green’s involvement in the future government when the Luas extension to Finglas was presented to the Cabinet. He stated that the Greens’ participation is vital for the continued public transport investment.
Regarding carbon emission and retrofitting, Ryan questioned whether the subsequent government could maintain the same political determination as their predecessor, suggesting an absence of the Greens could result in the dissipation of this determination.
Their strategy is a hassle-free appeal to core Green voters, with an additional benefit of attracting those who realise the advantages of considering ecological matters along with quality of life issues. Though the Greens’ current polling at five per cent nationwide (and nine per cent in Dublin) suggests a foundational base, convincing voters beyond this remains a challenge.
In light of this, their push for broad-reaching policies like the baby boost in the budget was no shock, despite their attempt at a Green-oriented business support scheme being ultimately thwarted. O’Gorman’s endeavour to forge an early leadership position in any potential centre-left coalition, by encouraging pre-emptive discussions amongst similarly inclined parties, is apparent.
The gloomiest predication in the Leinster House envisages the Greens only securing two or three TDs in the next Dáil, all based in Dublin. For the Green Party to make significant progress in its traditional strongholds, it may depend on sheer hard work in challenging seats such as Wicklow and Waterford where they’re at a disadvantage.
From the US electoral front, Steven Carroll files his report from Georgia. In other news, the Social Democrats are set to reveal their Childcare and Early Years Education policy at Merrion Square, scheduled for 11am. The annual report of Respond will be introduced by Darragh O’Brien at 10am.
The daily business in the Dáil commences at 9.10am, featuring discussions around current affairs, shortly prior to a Labour Party proposal about public health staff numbers. A series of questions addressed to various leaders is planned for noon, and it will be succeeded by queries on Policy or Legislation and questions directed to the Taoiseach.
Following this, the day will continue with legislative processes ahead of the elections, including the Health Insurance Amendment Bill and the Maternity Protection Bill. Legislation related to the Seanad electorate and amendments to the hate crime Bill by Seanad will be the concluding items in the evening.
Simultaneously, the Seanad’s day will start at 10.30am with initiation issues, after which there will be a midday speech by Hiroshima’s mayor.
Simultaneously, committee activity includes a presentation to the health committee from the Irish Cardiac Society at 9.30am, followed by dialogue with Fórsa regarding HSE staffing. At 5.30pm, representatives from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council will address the budgetary oversight committee, while the agriculture committee will be hearing from representatives of My Lovely Horse Rescue.