2019 GREEN PARTY CONVENTION - LEADING THE CHANGE
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LEADING THE CHANGE
2019
BLACKHALL PLACE
GREEN PARTY CONVENTION
12 - 15 JULY
2019
13-14 JULY
WELCOME TO STONEYBATTER!
FÁILTE GO BÓTHAR NA GCLOCH!
Welcome to Dublin Central!
It is 1,200 years since the Vikings first stepped ashore from their longboats onto the muddy northern shores of the River Liffey;
just down the road from where we’re holding our Convention. Dublin 7 has long been known for cattle-dealing and glass-
making, and in recent years has become a creative hub with cultural and food businesses attracted to the area. You’ll be able
to savour hand-made ice-cream from Christiano in Sorrento’s chipper, or a flat white from Love Supreme. The Lilliput Press is
just around the corner off Arbour Place, and Bí Urban is an amazing studio for social creativity on Manor Street. The National
Museum at Collins Barracks is nearby, as are the graves of the 1916 leaders.
In 1997 I ran in the General Election here before being elected in 2002 in Dún Laoghaire. Cllr. Neasa Hourigan now represents
Cabra and Glasnevin just up the road, and is our candidate for the next General Election. Cllr. Michael Pidgeon’s ward is a
stone’s throw away across the river. As a councillor here for the last five years I have focussed on making the city easier to
get around, tackling disadvantage, and the housing crisis. Recently the City Council has upgraded older persons’ housing at
St. Bricin’s off Arbour Hill to a Passive House standard. Plans for the Liffey Cycle route are in the pipeline, as are proposals to
regenerate the nearby Fruit and Vegetable Markets.
The Greens are now the second largest party on the City Council, and we’re looking forward to progressing lots of initiatives
over the next five years. As Dublin’s new MEP I’ll be working closely with my council colleagues to make Dublin a green and
fairer city for all, and achieving a just transition.
Ciarán Cuffe MEP
Dublin Central Green Party
Local area tips:
National Museum of Ireland/Collins Barracks, Arbour Hill Cemetery. Phoenix Park (Visitor Centre,
Rent a bike, Farmleigh House, Prehistoric Burial Chamber), Dublin Zoo and Jameson Distillery.
For more info visit www.smithfieldandstoneybatter.ie
1WELCOME
FÁILTE
Dear Green Colleagues,
Welcome to our 2019 annual Convention. We had a great result in the recent elections, both North and South, and now
is the time for us to live up to that vote. We must work together at the local, national and international level to advance
a Green New Deal which delivers a just transition. That requires a new economy which builds community and restores
natural capital and social justice at the same time. Our new councillors are already working to deliver the sort of system
change we need at a local level.
The job this weekend is to grow our own party to support that work and to prepare for the next general election. We are
in a climate and biodiversity emergency. We need everyone to play their part in responding to that challenge.
It’s time to go to action stations. Welcome aboard.
Eamon Ryan TD
Party Leader
A chara ghlais,
Céad míle fáilte go Baile Átha Cliath. Welcome to Convention 2019! I am looking forward to meeting all of you,
new members and old, this weekend.
This is a very important time for the Green movement, in Ireland, in Europe, and worldwide.
The Green Wave that arrived with the Local and European Elections in May showed just how much the people
of Ireland want action in tackling climate change.
We have more Councillors than ever before, on Councils from Clare to Dublin, Waterford to Galway, Kilkenny to Cork,
Limerick to Kildare, Ards and North Down, Lisburn and Castlereagh, Wicklow, Belfast and Westmeath.
There are Irish Green voices in Europe once again in our brilliant MEPs Grace O’Sullivan and Ciarán Cuffe.
Now the work really begins, in Councils across the country and in the European Parliament, to start implementing those green policies that
the people of Ireland voted for. To prioritise active transport, protect biodiversity, promote clean energy, stop plastic and other forms of
pollution, and to build more just, equal and sustainable communities. There is no party with stronger democratic structures than us –
everything we do as we grow as a Party, we will do together.
Green voices and green actions are needed now more than ever. It’s up to us to be those voices, to roll up our sleeves
ensure that we build those green communities. Let’s go to work, together. Ní neart go cur le chéile.
Catherine Martin TD
Deputy Leader
A chairde,
Welcome to Convention! I’m looking forward to meeting many new colleagues and many of our more seasoned
ones who I have the pleasure to call friends as well as colleagues. It is exactly that which makes the Greens
so special, we are a party of ideas but we are also a party which are united in them forming a community that
thrives to make our country a better place.
It has been my pleasure to serve as your National Coordinator-Chair of the Executive this year. From last
Convention thanks to the stellar work of our staff, volunteers and representatvies from across the country, we
have seen the party grow and gain momentum in every area. At the end of this Executive we now have a fully
staffed office, two MEPs and forty-nine Councillors. But our aim is to do more. The stakes are higher than ever as
the country which has voted Green turns to us for action and leadership. We must work together and turn our
ideas into actions.
I look forward to spending the weekend discussing and working with you all to make this happen.
Hazel Chu
National Coordinator
2CONVENTION
INFORMATION
EOLAS ARD-FHEISE
Law Society of Ireland
This year’s Green Party Convention will take place on July 13th & 14th in
the historic Law Society of Ireland in Stoneybatter, Dublin.
Following the recent success of the local and European elections, we are
delighted to be in the heart of the north inner city, an area represented by
Ciarán Cuffe, our newly elected MEP.
Accessibility
There are three points of wheelchair access to the Law Society of Ireland.
The door into the lobby of the President’s Hall, where a ramp leads from the entrance lane to the lobby doors.
The door in the South Quadrant Garden and subsequently into the South Quadrant Corridor and Members
Lounge Area where registration will take place. The door at the corner of the Vanilla Café at the bottom of the
Academic St leading to the Green Hall Lecture Theatre is wheelchair accessible and is operated by a keypad.
Security will supply the code.
The building has a passenger lift for access to the upper floors. The Society has a designated Disabled Parking
space available behind the Vanilla Café building-opposite the Green Hall. Also disabled parking can be provided
in the main car park outside the main building.
Wheelchair accessible toilets are provided past the Blue Room on the ground floor of Blackhall Place and at the
rear of the Green Hall. The President’s Hall is fitted with a hearing loop for visitors with impaired hearing. Irish
sign language will be provided all Saturday in the President's Hall.
On-Site Childcare
Childcare will be open to all children attending Convention who have notified us in
advance, with no charge for delegates. Childcare will be available from 9am - 6pm on
Saturday, and on Sunday from 9am - 1pm in the Green Hall Logia as well as outdoors,
weather permitting. A light lunch and snacks will be available on Saturday.
Our childcare is provided by a fully qualified childminder.
3CONVENTION
INFORMATION
EOLAS ARD-FHEISE
Lunch
Lunch which has been purchased in advance will be available in the Dining room.
If you booked your lunch in advance, please ensure that you bring your
ticket which you were provided with at registration on Saturday morning.
There will be a limited amount of lunch tickets available to purchase at the
Merchandise Stand for €13. This will include soup, a selection of sandwiches
and wraps (all vegetarian) and coffee/tea.
Convention Dinner
The Convention Dinner will be held at 8:15pm on Saturday in
the President’s Hall for those who purchased dinner tickets in
advance.
There will be a very limited number of dinner tickets available to
purchase at the Merchandise Stand for €40.
Please purchase by 12pm on Saturday (cash only).
There is an ATM nearby in Stoneybatter. The menu caters to all
tastes and includes vegetarian/vegan options. If you have any
Convention Draw special dietary requirements, please inform someone at the
Merchandise Stand.
The draw is back by popular demand! The Convention draw will take place during dinner on Saturday (after
9:30pm). Tickets cost €5 and are available from the Merchandise Stand.
First Prize: €200 Second Prize: €75 Third Prize: €50
Convention
Live Room
To ensure we can cater for all attendees, a live-feed will be available in the Blue Room
throughout the weekend
4CONVENTION
INFORMATION
EOLAS ARD-FHEISE
Green Party Merchandise
Green Party branded merchandise will be available throughout the weekend at the Merchandise Stand next to
the President’s Hall.
Choose between our trendy rain jackets, Keep-Cups, badges, canvass tote bags and t-shirts.
Green Party Hooded Rain Jackets - €30 each
Green Party Keep Cups - €10 each
Green Party t-shirts - €10 each (Green, Blue, Yellow), €5 each (white)
Green Party Canvass Tote Bags - €4 each
Green Party Badges - €1 each
Registration
The Registration Desk will be open on Saturday from 8.30am - 5pm in the Blue Room and on Sunday from
9am - 1pm outside the President’s Hall. Members can register on arrival, and if paid-up for 2019 and past
the sixth-month probationary period, will receive a voting card.
If you have not yet paid your membership fee for 2019, you may do so at the Membership Renewal desk
next to registration. Members may renew by credit/debit card or with cash. Once renewed you will receive
your voting card.
Individuals whose membership has lapsed (i.e. not renewed in 2018 or 2019) must complete a probationary
period if re-joining, and therefore won’t be eligible to vote.
Members and Guests are welcome to purchase a dinner ticket at Registration with cash only. However there
will be limited tickets available.
ATMs are available closeby on Stoneybatter Road and in the Spar on the corner of Ellis Quay and the Liffey.
Voting Card
Your voting card is important - use this card to collect your Executive Committee election ballot paper and to
vote on motions if a division is called. So, please take care of it! If lost, it cannot be replaced.
You can read more about the election process in the section which introduces you to your candidates for the
Executive Committee this year.
508.30 - 17.00 Registration Desk - Blue Room
SATURDAY 10.00 - 18.00 Merchandise Stand - President’s Hall
MORNING 09.30 - 10.30 Sustaining Green Momentum - President’s Hall
10.30 - 12.00 Technical Motions - President’s Hall
11.00 - 12.00 Bees, Birds, Biodiversity - Michael O’ Mahony Room
11.00 - 13.00 New Members Session - Green Hall Theatre
11.00 - 12.00 Councillors’ Group - Council Chamber
12.00 - 13.00 Executive Committee Election - Candidate Speeches - President’s Hall
13.00 - 14.00 Young Greens Meeting - Michael O’ Mahony Room
13.00 - 14.00 Lunchtime and Executive Committee Voting
14.00 - 14.15 National Co-ordinator Report - President’s Hall
SATURDAY 14.00 - 15.00 Economics Policy Group - The Mock Court
AFTER 14.15 - 15.15 Queer Greens - Michael O’ Mahony Room
LUNCH Meet your new Green MEPs Grace O’Sullivan & Ciarán Cuffe
14.30 - 15.30
+ European Campaign In Focus - President’s Hall
15.00 - 16.00 Ecofeminism and the Green Wave - Green Hall Theatre
15.00 - 16.00 The Green Vision For Housing - Michael O’ Mahony Room
15.15 - 16.00 Councillors’ Group - Connecting Councillors for Regional City
Development - Council Chamber
15.30 - 17.00 Technical Motions Cont. - President’s Hall
15.45 -17.00 Climate Council - Green Hall Theatre
15.45 -17.15 Glas Agus Gaelach - Michael O’ Mahony Room
17.00 - 17.10 Executive Committee Results - President’s Hall
SATURDAY
17.10 - 18.00 Cathaoirleach, Deputy Leader and Leader Speeches
EVENING - President’s Hall
18.00 - 20.15 Drinks Reception - Blue Room
20.15 - 22.30 Gala Dinner - President’s Hall
22.30 Evening Social - Blue Room
Information Desk and Merchandise Stand - President’s Hall
SUNDAY 09.00 - 13.00
09.00 - 10.00 Yoga - Movement for Change - Flower Garden
MORNING
10.15 - 11.15 Non-Technical Motions - President’s Hall
10.45 - 11.45 Mná Glasa - Blue Room
11.30 - 12.30 Reports of Young Greens Chair, Policy Chair and Treasurer.
Election of Treasurer, Appeals Committee, Auditor and Trustees
- President’s Hall
SCHEDULE
SCEIDEAL
6TALKS & SPEAKERS
CAINTEANNA & CAINTEOIRÍ
Sustaining Green Momentum
PRESIDENT’S HALL 9.30 – 10.30
The election results in May were historic for the Green Party, but how do we
build on that success? How to we continue to convince more voters to back
the Green Party as we head into the next decade?
A panel of councillors who were elected as part of the #GreenWave will
discuss how we sustain this Green momentum at every level of government,
with invited questions from the audience.
Panel: Cllr Claire Byrne, Dublin South East Inner City; Cllr Dan Boyle; Cork City
South Central; Cllr Pippa Hackett, Edenderry; Cllr Peter Kavanagh, Clondalkin;
and Cllr Pauline O’Reilly, Galway City West.
Moderator: Mary Gallagher-Cooke
New Members Session
GREEN HALL THEATRE 11.00 – 13.00
Are you new to the party and want to act? Come to the New Members open
session where Eamon Ryan and Catherine Martin talk about the future of the
party, where we came from and how all along it’s been driven by the
members.
We delve into the journeys of first-time candidate and now Galway City
Councillor, Pauline O’Reilly as well as Saoirse McHugh, a new member who
fearlessly ran a European election campaign.
Hear why members Sineád Mercier and Robin Cafolla joined the party and the
extraordinary campaigns they’ve led, from midland bogs to the #GreenWave.
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
7TALKS & SPEAKERS
CAINTEANNA & CAINTEOIRÍ
Bees, Birds, Biodiversity Workshop
MICHAEL O’MAHONY ROOM 11.00 – 12.00
Bees, Birds, Biodiversity - it’s all buckling under the weight of climate change and
habitat destruction. Our panellists - Cllr Pippa Hackett, Cllr Malcolm Noonan, and
Grace O’Sullivan MEP - discuss the current situation for biodiversity in Ireland and
what needs to be done to protect our native wildlife.
There will also be an interactive element to this workshop as your knowledge of
Ireland’s wildlife is put to the test! The panel will be chaired by Cllr Úna Power.
Economics Policy Group - Member Discussion:
The Carbon Dividend Approach
MOCK COURT 14.00 – 15.00
Increasing the price of carbon in our economy is seen as a crucial part of our
transition to a sustainable society. However, many feel the burden will fall too
heavily on those unable to pay, or even that it won’t work properly at all. We’re
eager to hear your views on this vital issue, so please join in the discussion.
Meet your new Green MEPs
Grace O’Sullivan and Ciarán Cuffe
PRESIDENT’S HALL 14.30 – 15.30
Join newly elected MEPs Ciarán Cuffe (Dublin) and Grace O’Sullivan (Ireland
South) to hear what they have been working on in Brussels & Strasbourg since
May’s election, what the aim for the Irish Greens are as part of the fourth largest
group in the European Parliament (the Greens/European Free Alliance), which
committees they will be working on what their policy aims are, and their
impressions of the new Parliament and Commission.
Moderator: Simon McKeagney, Brussels Greens
European Campaign in Focus
PRESIDENT’S HALL 14.30 – 15.30
In this session three fantastic European candidates will take the stage to discuss the campaign – Saoirse
McHugh, Ciarán Cuffe and Grace O’Sullivan, along with campaign managers. The European election
results in May were the best ever results for the Green Party – how did our candidates deliver such a
great result? What lessons are there for Green campaigning in future elections?
Moderator: Ed Davitt, Twitter Celebrity
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
8TALKS & SPEAKERS
CAINTEANNA & CAINTEOIRÍ
Ecofeminism and the Green Wave
GREEN HALL THEATRE 15.00 – 16.00
Ecofeminism takes the approach that environmental, race, gender, and class
inequities are intimately intertwined. Our belief in a right to exploit women and each
other, extends from a belief in the right to exploit the land around us.
Through the ‘Green Wave’, the public have voted for radical climate action. What’s
next and is current mainstream green thinking up to the challenge? How can the
disruptive space provided by ecofeminist and poetic rationalisms help us rethink
mainstream political thought and offer the radical, just changes that are needed?
The panel will be showcase a mix of perspectives from the arts, grassroots activism,
academia and politics to build a response to the new political frontiers we are facing.
The Green Vision for Housing
MICHAEL O’MAHONY ROOM 15.00 – 16.00
What is the Green vision for housing? What can we do to turn
the tide on the ongoing housing crisis and ensure quality homes
are built? During this discussion the panel will look at how we
can create long-term, sustainable, and affordable homes for all,
focusing on solutions such as cost-rental, co-housing, and
reinvigorating our town centres.
So join Cllr Lorna Bogue, Cllr Deirdre Ní Fhloinn, and Cllr Ossian
Smyth for an in-depth discussion on how we should drive housing
policy to ensure there are homes for all.
The panel will be chaired by Cllr Michael Pidgeon.
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
9TALKS & SPEAKERS
CAINTEANNA & CAINTEOIRÍ
Climate Council
GREEN HALL THEATRE 15.45 – 17.00
Ireland’s current government have been remarkably unresponsive
on the issue of climate action. The recently published climate plan
is long on talk but short on action and ideas. Over the last year
our representatives in the Oireachtas have been actively
proposing climate policies such as the Waste Reduction Bill but
we have also been hard at work on the Committee on Climate
Action. In parallel with this work our councillors have sought to
raise environmental and climate concerns in the council chambers
of local authorities.
It is in this context that we wanted to form a new climate change
policy group. To consider the detail and the future challenges of
a topic that is at the core of our party’s work. This group will be
made up of you and your fellow volunteers and I hope will work
closely with our Leinster house staff and representatives to
develop and propose new and emerging positions on Climate
Action.
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
Yoga - “Movement for Change “
FLOWER GARDEN 09.00 – 10.00
Join Lydia in this yoga class designed to connect and align our core
beliefs with the core of our planet. Explore how moving from our
centre enables us to find strength not only in our bodies but also in
our ability to make change. Through yoga poses and breath practices
we will discover that we are stronger than we thought we were and
that in order to connect to our community and our environment we
need first to connect to ourselves.
SUNDAY
DÉ DOMHNAIGH
10PARTY BUSINESS
GNÓ AN PHAÍRTÍ
TECHNICAL MOTIONS 10.30 – 12.00
PRESIDENT’S HALL
See pages 24-27 for details
COUNCILLORS' GROUP 11.00 – 12.00
COUNCIL CHAMBER
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ELECTION - CANDIDATE SPEECHES 12.00 – 13.00
PRESIDENT’S HALL
Candidates will speak for three minutes each before voting. See pages 20-23 for details on
candidates.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE VOTING 13.00 – 14.00
OFF MAIN CORRIDOR
YOUNG GREENS MEETING 13.00 – 14.00
MICHAEL O’MAHONY ROOM
Convention is a great opportunity for Young Greens from across the country to exchange ideas
and plan for the year ahead.
NATIONAL CO-ORDINATOR REPORT 14.00 – 14.15
PRESIDENT’S HALL
QUEER GREENS MEETING 14.15 – 15.15
MICHAEL O’MAHONY ROOM
COUNCILLOR’S GROUP -
CONNECTING COUNCILLORS FOR REGIONAL CITY DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL CHAMBER 15.15 – 16.00
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
11PARTY BUSINESS
GNÓ AN PHAÍRTÍ
MOTIONS CONTD. 15.30 – 17.00
PRESIDENT’S HALL
See pages 24-27 for details
GLAS AGUS GAELACH 16.45 – 17.15
MICHAEL O’MAHONY ROOM
An Ghaeilge sa Chomhaontas Glas - anois agus amach anseo / The Irish language in the Green Party -
now and into the future.
Seisiún eolais agus plé ina ndéanfar cíoradh ar sheasamh na Gaeilge sa pháirtí ó 2014 i leith, go háirithe
maidir le Cairt Teanga inmheánach an pháirtí agus polasaí Gaeilge an pháirtí don tír ar fad, d’fhonn an
dá dhoiciméad sin a fheabhsú agus a neartú. Iarrfar ar na baill a bheidh i láthair a dtuairimí a nochtadh
faoi fhorbairt an dátheangachais ar bhealach éifeachtach cuimsitheach sa pháirtí sna blianta amach
romhainn, agus tabharfar deis dóibh bheith páirteach sa phróiseas sin iad féin. Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil
roimh ré ó gaeilgesachomhaontasglas@gmail.com
Information session where the standing of Irish within the party since 2014 will be discussed, specifically
in relation to the party’s internal Language Charter and its Irish-language policy for Irish nationally, in
order to improve and strengthen those documents. Members at the session will be invited to give their
opinions on the way forward in terms of promoting bilingualism within the party in the most effective
and inclusive manner possible and they will be given the opportunity to contribute to that process
themselves. More info available in advance from gaeilgesachomhaontasglas@gmail.com
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE RESULTS 17.00 – 17.10
PRESIDENT’S HALL
As we attempt to ‘Make Ireland Green Again', join assembled delegates to hear
Roderic O’Gorman, Catherine Martin, and Eamon Ryan on Saturday from 17.10.
CATHAOIRLEACH'S SPEECH 17.10 – 17.20
PRESIDENT’S HALL
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
12PARTY BUSINESS
GNÓ AN PHAÍRTÍ
DEPUTY LEADER'S SPEECH 17.20 – 17.35
PRESIDENT’S HALL
LEADER'S SPEECH 17.35 – 18.00
PRESIDENT’S HALL
SATURDAY
DÉ SATHAIRN
NON-TECHNICAL MOTIONS 10.15 – 11.15
PRESIDENT’S HALL
See pages 28-33 for details
MNÁ GLÁSA 10.45 – 11.45
BLUE ROOM
REPORT OF THE YOUNG GREENS CHAIR, POLICY COUNCIL CHAIR,
AND TREASURER. ELECTION OF TRUSTEES, APPEALS COMMITTEE,
AUDITOR, AND TREASURER 11.30 – 12.30
PRESIDENT’S HALL
SUNDAY
DÉ DOMHNAIGH
13OUR COUNCILLORS
ÁR GCOMHAIRLEOIRÍ
OUR MEPs
ÁR BHFEISIRÍ EORPACHA
14VOTING RESULTS
TORTHAÍ VÓTÁLA
LOCAL ELECTIONS 2019
The Local Elections in 2019 were the Green Party’s best ever local elections, winning 5.55% of
the first preference vote (96,315 votes), and 49 council seats in the Republic. The previous record
for a local election was 2004, where the party won 3.9% (71,052 votes) and took 18 seats. The
seats won in the 2019 election represent 47.5% of all council elections ever won by the Green
Party since 1981.
The Local Elections in Northern Ireland were also the best ever for the GPNI, doubling our seats
to 8 and winning a seat in Lisburn & Castlereagh for the first time.
20 women were elected or re-elected to councils in the Republic for the Green Party in 2019
alone - 40% of elected Greens at local level currently. In all previous local elections combined,
women won or held seats just 16 times, representing 30% of all council elections won by the
party up to 2019.
The Green Party won council seats for the first time ever in Waterford, Cork County, Limerick,
Offaly, Westmeath, and Galway County.
Cllr Hazel Chu, Cllr Claire Byrne, Cllr Roderic O’Gorman, Cllr Steve Mattews, Cllr Seáfra
Ó Faoileán, and Cllr Michael Pidgeon all smashed through the previous record set for a Green
candidate’s first preference vote (22% set by Mary White in 1999).
EUROPEAN ELECTIONS 2019
The European Elections in 2019 were, by far, the Green Party’s best ever European elections. In
fact, in this election more people voted Green and the party won a bigger first preference vote
than in any previous election contested by the Green Party. 190,755 people voted Green No 1,
representing 11.4% of the FPV.
2019 was also the Green Party in Northern Ireland’s best ever result in a European Election, with
Clare Bailey taking 12,471 first preferences. Across the entire island, the Green Party surpassed
200,000 votes on May 24th (203,226) - a truly historic milestone.
Taking two seats out of 13 (or 11) represents the best seat result for the Green Party in a
European Election, being 15% (or 18%) of the available seats. The next best result was in 1994
and 1999, when the party also won two seats, out of 15 (13% of the available seats at that
time).
15REPORT OF POLICY COUNCIL CHAIR
TUAIRISC CHATHAOIRLEACH NA COMHAIRLE POLASAITHE
Dear Members
It has been a busy and fruitful year for the party and its policy development. It’s an exciting time
for all of us to be involved in this ‘green’ conversation and I hope next year we will continue
to work with you, our members, and all those in our communities who care about ethical and
sustainable living to progress our policies.
The Policy Council officers are incredibly grateful to everyone who donates their time and effort
to read and review proposed documents; who travel to meetings to contribute as delegates; and
to craft amendments for inclusion in new and existing policies. We could not further our work
in this regard without you your input and your opinion. So keep contributing- it may sometimes
seem like a slow process but policy created by our members on the ground, based on lived
experience, is the cornerstone of our party’s strength.
This year we were delighted to ratify a number of key policies. Our Cooperative Business policy
was ratified in June of 2018. This policy covers a broad range of issues and seeks to place ethical
consumerism, community solidarity and global workers rights at the heart of business practice
A very much needed review and rewrite of our policy on Housing was passed in October 2018.
This policy considered how to recognise housing as a human right, how to help people
experiencing the housing crisis right now and how to keep rents affordable. The policy also built
a strong case for the nationwide introduction of the Vienna Model of housing provision and
outlined why best practice and environmental design in building standards and planning law are
so important.
At the same October session we ratified our Community Development policy which seeks to
place decision making back into the hands of community participants, a goal that is core to a
green society. Our new Drugs policy was also ratified at that session and set out a path for this
country to view the misuse of drugs in terms of health rather than criminality. The Policing Policy
we passed in the October session considers how we can reform, support and optimise our
policing resources across the country.
In December 2018 we ratified our Childcare Policy. This policy is a progressive look at how we
might place choice, equality and affordability at the heart of childcare for Irish families. In
February 2019 we built on the excellent work of Senator Grace O’Sullivan and the staff in
Leinster house to ratify an ambitious and comprehensive policy on the Marine Environment.
A number of policy documents are working their way through council and have been responded
to by members in their draft form including Universal Basic Income and a Women’s Policy.
16REPORT OF POLICY COUNCIL CHAIR
TUAIRISC CHATHAOIRLEACH NA COMHAIRLE POLASAITHE
CONT’D
I would like to particularly thank those members who this year headed up policy groups and
came to Policy Council to have that work ratified. It is a considerable commitment to undertake
such work and is integral to the operation of our party.
All of our ratified policies are constantly being updated through amendment by branches and it
is worth noting that every member of our party can table amendments or motions through their
branch and have a significant impact on party policy. This year we are also trialling a Climate
Council to begin a wider debate within the party on climate change, it’s emerging issues and
radical solutions. All are welcome to join.
Motions passed this year include some of the following (all not included): a motion from the
Cork Greens on Equality and the Pay Gap, on Citizens Rights in the Context of Brexit and on the
Affordability, Fares and Public Transport. The Galway Greens submitted a motion on access to
Parental Leave. The Fingal Greens successfully moved that we revitalise our Water Policy. The
Cavan-Monaghan Greens submitted an excellent motion to address access to Maintenance
Grants for those in Higher Education with Disabilities. The Limerick Greens moved a motion on
progressing the implementation of a Directly Elected Mayor. The Longford Westmeath Greens
submitted a motion on reviewing Transport Policies within the party. The Dublin Rathdown
Greens moved a policy point on Equality and Employment Rights in our Education System and
the Dun Laoghaire Greens submitted a motion on the importance of Carbon Budgeting.
A special ‘thank you’ goes out this year to our wonderful and very active Young Greens. In
between some impressive on the ground activism they submitted motions on diverse topics from
protecting our hedgerows, protecting the rights of PhD students and improving the way in which
we fund our Education System. It was particularly encouraging to receive a successful motion
from the Rural Young Greens who have been active in the area of supporting pollinators and
submitted a motion outlining how we could protect our native honeybee.
Finally my sincere and heartfelt thanks to John Goodwillie (Secretary) and Harry McEvansoneya
(Deputy Chair) without whose help, wisdom and good humour, Policy Council would not be
possible.
Councillor Neasa Hourigan
17REPORT OF YOUNG GREEN CHAIR
TUAIRISC CHATHAOIRLEACH ÓIGE GHLAS
The Young Greens have had a hugely successful year so far, and our membership
has grown rapidly over the course of the last 12 months. We have returned to UCD
and Trinity and work is underway to grow our branches in NUIG, UCC and
Maynooth.
We were delighted to have played our part in helping the tide of the Green Wave
come in during the local and European elections. Over the course of the campaign
we organised 40 group canvasses across 4 provinces and held a campaign event in
Cork for our selection of young candidates. In addition to this, many of our members
hit the campaign trail with their local candidates to help them get elected.
We have greatly expanded our reach on social media (an increase in followers of
87% on Facebook, 120% on Twitter, & 683% on Instagram), thanks to our talented
communications team. The Young Greens now have some of the most active and
followed social media accounts of any youth political group in Ireland.
Young Green activists have been at the forefront of environmental campaigning this
year. We occupied the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environ-
ment in November to draw attention to the Government’s total inaction on climate
issues. We have also played a major role in organising environmental protests and
demonstrations during the year.
As a final note, I’d like to thank the Green Party for supporting the Young Greens
this year. If you know anyone under the age of 30 or in full time education please
ask them to sign up for membership on our website - to change everything, we
need everyone!
John Doody, Chairperson
18Bláithín Gallagher
A Leitrim woman, I will represent the voice of rural dwellers in Connacht and
Ulster(ROI). Project Manager, Researcher, Editor, qualified mediator, I work in the field
of health services, disability, ageing, quality improvement, and the arts. Experienced
chairperson at board level nationally and internationally. I’m not afraid to speak the
truth or to tackle issues head on. I promise integrity and honesty. I will work to
develop co-ordinated activities nationally to keep the Green Party riding the crest of
the Green wave, advancing the focus on rural Ireland.
Breandan MacGabhann
A party activist since before the 2007 General Election, I moved to Limerick last August
for a job as Lecturer in Geography at Mary Immaculate College and the University of
Limerick. I ran in the Local Elections in Limerick City West, and missed out by just 25
votes. Now, I’m looking for a role within the party where I can best use my expertise and
experience to support our councillors, and to help get as many Green TDs as possible
elected to the next Dáil.
Clare O’Byrne
I am from Rathfarnham in the Dublin South-West constituency. I joined the Party in
2017, eager to get involved in Irish society and Green politics following a decade
abroad. With a background in international relations and communications, I currently
work in the public sector and volunteer with a mental health charity. I recently worked
with Cllr. Francis Duffy on his successful local election campaign and have been a
member of the communications sub-committee. If elected, I will work hard for you on
the Executive Committee.
David Gosling
Since joining the party in 2007 I have been Chair of DBS, Lead Coordinator of the
‘12-‘17 Party Strategy, Fundraising Lead in ’14, led HQ renovations in ‘11 and helped
organise Conventions & canvassed/leafleted/postered since ‘07. I served in the Army
‘85-’01, since working in Facilities Management, Property and e-commerce. I have
a BA & MBA and begin a two year International Development MA in September. I
have lived in Israel, Egypt, Singapore, London, and served with the UN in Lebanon &
Western Sahara.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES
TOGHCHÁN AN CHOISTE FEIDHMIÚCHÁIN
19Dominick Donnelly
I have been a member of the party for over 20 years, and I previously served on the
Executive Committee for 8 years during which time I was National Co-ordinator for
many years, and after a gap of a number of years was elected to the Executive again
last year. In my time in the party I have had countless roles, including Councillor,
candidate, campaign manager, group secretary, etc. Currently I am Oliver Moran’s
campaign manager, and the Fundraising Officer of the Cork Greens, as well as chairing
the Rules and Procedures subcommittee of the party. I would appreciate you support
again, so that I can continue to help this party that I love grow stronger and better.
Donal Swan
As a former Chair and Secretary of the Dublin Rathdown Greens, Secretary of the Young
Greens, policy delegate, campaign/canvassing manager, staff member in HQ and
Leinster House, and having canvassed with reps all over the country, I have been
involved in almost every aspect of the Party. I want to use my experience to strengthen
internal communication structures within the Party so that as we continue to grow, every
single member is included in shaping our way forward. Please consider me for your #1
vote!
Eoin Daly
I’m a Green Party member from County Louth, working with Mark Dearey and the
Party across a number of elections since 2011. I contested the recent local elections
in the Dundalk/Carlingford LEA as a first time candidate. We managed to grow the
party’s first preference vote, narrowly missing out on the final seat but growing the
party’s presence significantly. I’m an engineer by trade and would like the
opportunity to bring this expertise to the party’s policy and direction through
a place on the committee.
Eithne Lynch
I joined the party nine years ago and have been an active foot soldier in the election
and referendum campaigns since then as well as local campaigns, notably against the
Ringaskiddy incinerator. Since 2015 I’ve been Chair of the Cork Greens.
Environmental issues are finally in the spotlight and so is the vision of the Green Party.
We’re in a different place now and the Executive Committee has an important role to
play in meeting the challenges this brings – I would like to be part of that.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES
TOGHCHÁN AN CHOISTE FEIDHMIÚCHÁIN
20Cllr. Eva Elizabeth Dowling
I’m a business strategist, a science communicator, and a newly elected County
Councillor, bringing over a decade’s worth of professional experience to the table.
Over the past two years on the Executive Committee, I’ve worked hard to deliver an
efficiently-run Green Party, that is always focused on the next elections. My main
priorities are to ensure our party enjoys a broad, diverse and inclusive membership; is
undoubtedly prepared for the next general election; and is Ireland’s leading,
evidence-based political party.
Gavin Nugent
I’ve been a member since 2015, and worked for the Party from 2015 until 2018,
managing communications during the historic 2016 GE campaign. If elected to EC, I
want to prioritise improving internal communications, stakeholder engagement and
developing the party to safeguard our recent growth. I grew up in Wexford, and recently
managed Una Power’s poll-topping 2019 campaign in Killiney-Shankill. I work as a
communications manager in the semi-State sector, dealing with media and elected
representatives, and am currently a member of EC.
Cllr. Hazel Chu
I am the outgoing Chair of the Executive and it has been my pleasure to serve you this
year. I worked with the Gen Sec, our staff and Exec in making sure our growth
strategy is fit for purpose, this included everything from HR to election strategy.
I believe my experience in management has brought useful skillsets to the role.
I would like to continue on Exec to ensure we scale and build on the momentum of
the Green Wave, I am a qualified barrister, a former company director, previously head
of communications for Diageo and now a Dublin City Councillor.
Jennifer Callaghan
I played a pivotal role in the resurgence of the Kildare Greens which resulted in three
newly elected local councillors. I believe we need voices from the farming community
on the NEC to continue to build support from rural areas. I have worked in the Funds
Industry for 15 years where I sat on the Executive Committee and various sub-
committees for a large Financial Institution. I’m committed to using my financial skills
to further expand the level of fundraising required to grow the party.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES
TOGHCHÁN AN CHOISTE FEIDHMIÚCHÁIN
21Kevin James Byrne
I ran for and served on the EC last year as someone who’d worked in economic policy
development in order to help develop our strategy, our communications and the
deployment of our limited resources so that we could connect with people who may
not prioritise the issues we’ve always been strong on, and to grow our party into a
full alternative. We’re getting there, so I’m running for the same reason. I believe my
experience and focus would be useful to the party on EC again this year.
Maebh Cody
I am Chair of Longford Westmeath Greens, a group I set up. We are now a successful
Green Team with two councillors in Westmeath. I was campaign manager for Louise
Heavin in Athlone where we made history in a 5 seat LEA. I was a member in Dublin
Rathdown where I was a local candidate and involved in every election campaign there
since I joined 12 years ago. My experience of leading on organising and election cam-
paigns would be critical on this EC for building on our recent success.
Rob Jones
I’ve been deeply involved in the grass roots of the Party since 2016 when the party
ran a candidate in my home constituency in Westmeath. I’ve been the Communi-
cations Officer on the Young Green National Executive in 2017 and 2018 and also
Chair of Dublin Bay North Greens as well as a voting member of the Policy Steering
Committee for the past year. I want to bring my professional knowledge in business
advisory and my experience in the grass roots of the party to the National Executive at
this critical point as the Green Wave rises. Please vote Rob Jones Number 1.
Tate Donnelly
I’m a 20-year-old Economics & Maths student, and I currently work as an intern
researcher on Just Transition. I live on the border, just outside Castleblayney, Co.
Monaghan. I’m a Rural Green and a Young Green. I currently serve as Secretary of the
Cavan Monaghan Greens, Chair of Trinity Young Greens and Events & Membership Of-
ficer of the Young Greens. I want to help the Party make progress in every part of the
country, and move forward in policy areas such as Economics and Rural Regeneration.
Ar aghaidh linn le chéile!
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES
TOGHCHÁN AN CHOISTE FEIDHMIÚCHÁIN
22MOTIONS
TECHNICAL RÚIN
MOTIONS
RÚIN MOTION A
THEICNIÚLA
Proposer: YOUNG GREENS
Two-Year Staggered Terms for Executive Committee
Amend section 5.6(f) of the Green Party Constitution as indicated in bold:
5.6 (f) 5 other members elected by preferendum to serve for two-year long terms at
each Annual Convention so that:
i) there are 15 members;
ii) of the 15 members there will be at least one member of the Parliamentary Party
and not more than three;
iii) of the 15 members there will be at least one local government representative
iv) The Returning Officer shall ensure that the counting of ballots for the election to the Executive
committee takes place so that it is possible for any full member of the Party to observe the count in
person;
v) The Returning Officer shall ensure that candidates or their appointed agent be
afforded an opportunity to scrutinise potentially spoilt or unclear ballots;
vi) The Returning Officer is the final arbiter of all matters contained in this section
5.6 (f: (iii) & (iv)), but shall consider the rules for Dáil elections;
vii) of the 10 members who have been elected at an Annual Convention there will be at least one
member resident in each of the following areas:
• Dublin (City or County);
• the rest of Leinster;
• Munster;
• Connacht, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan;
• Northern Ireland.
If the above conditions and gender balance cannot both be satisfied by the candidates available,
additional members will be selected to achieve gender balance. In this event the next highest ranking
males or females in the preferendum will be elected. Failing this the Executive Committee will co-opt
members to achieve gender balance.
Meetings shall be attended in a non-voting capacity by the Chair (or in his/her absence the Deputy
Chair) of Policy Council.
Note: This motion is intended to come into effect for the next Annual Convention and have no effect
on the Executive Committee elected at this Convention. For the first year in which the Executive Com-
mittee transitions to 2 year terms, the proposers recommend that 10 members be elected by prefer-
endum, with 5 of these chosen at random to serve for two years, and the other 5 to serve for a single
year. After this, election to the Executive Committee would proceed as described above.
23MOTIONS
TECHNICAL RÚIN
MOTIONS
RÚIN MOTION B
THEICNIÚLA
Proposer: UCD YOUNG GREENS
Limit on Local Government Representatives on Executive Committee
Limit on Local Government Representatives on Executive Committee
Amend section 5.6 f (ii) of the constitution as indicated:
“(ii) of the 15 members there will be at least one local government representative’ and no more
than five”
MOTION C
Proposer: YOUNG GREENS
Non-Voting Staff Representative on Executive Committee
Insert the following text to section 5.6 (f) of the constitution:
Meetings shall be attended in a non-voting capacity by the Chair (or in his/her absence the Deputy Chair)
of Policy Council and a representative nominated by members of staff employed by the Party
and its members in the Oireachtas.
MOTION D
Proposer: UCC GREENS
Gender-neutral Language in the Constitution
Amend the following sections of the constitution:
• Article 2.2.3:
“Both women and men Everyone must be enabled to take an equal and full share in all the
responsibilities of life.”
• Article 4.4.2:
“A person who wishes to be a full member of the Party does not have to serve a six month probationary
period if the Executive Committee agrees to his/her their immediate [full] membership.”
• Article 4.7:
“the right of a member or group to be heard in his, her or its their own defence;”
• Article 5.1.2:
“Where there is no Constituency Group, he or she they may register with an appropriate neighbouring
Constituency Group or Regional Group.”
24MOTIONS
TECHNICAL RÚIN
MOTIONS
RÚIN
THEICNIÚLA
MOTION D CONT’D
• Article 5.6:
“Meetings shall be attended in a non-voting capacity by the Chair (or in his/her their absence the
Deputy Chair) of Policy Council.”
• Article 5.6.1:
“n the event of such resignation, he or she they shall be replaced in accordance with Rules and
Procedures.”
• Article 5.8.5:
“If the Party Leader is a member of the Parliamentary Party, s/he they shall be leader of the
Parliamentary Party and the Party Group in the relevant House.”
• Article 9.6.7:
“A Green representative shall be required to remit whatever portion of his/her their remuneration to
Party funds as is decided beforehand by Convention in the Budget Resolution…”
• Article 9.6.8:
“A Green public representative shall not accept any money, gifts or benefits in kind in connection with
his/her their political work without the knowledge and approval of the Executive Committee.”
• Article 9.9:
“An elected representative may go forward for selection for as many terms of office as he/she they
sees fit.”
• Article 9.10.3:
“A public representative should demonstrate Green ideals by his/her their style of life as well as by
the spoken word.”
• Article 9.10.4:
“He/she They shall be free to express his/her their personal views while stressing the Party position”
Rationale: The Green Party is a party for everyone, regardless of gender, and its
constitution should reflect that. Any mention of ‘he/she’ or ‘his/her’ should be replaced
with ‘they’, ‘their’ or whatever replacement is appropriate in the given context,
provided it does not reference a specific sex or gender. Exceptions to this are any
descriptions relating directly to membership of Mná Glasa, or any gender-specific
scenario where a neutral term would not be appropriate..
25MOTIONS
TECHNICAL RÚIN
MOTIONS
RÚIN MOTION E
THEICNIÚLA
Proposer: KILDARE
Constituency Groups Retaining Full Membership Fees
Amend the Rules & Procedures for Membership as follows:
2. All members must renew on the 1st January each year with the National Office. If subscriptions are
received by Constituency Groups (e.g. by means of a standing order), they must forward the information
to the national party and any portion of the subscription which is allocated to the national party as soon
as practicable. Subscriptions received by any other group or person must be forwarded to the National
Office as soon as possible.
5. Each membership subscription will be shared equally between the national party, the regional group
(if there is one) and the Constituency Group of the member allocated in full to the Constituency
Group of the member, applicable to those branches which have a current operating bank
account. Subscriptions from members who do not belong to a Constituency Group will be shared equal-
ly between the national party and the regional group (if there is one) - if there is no regional group then
the national party shall retain the whole of the subscription. Donations from members will also be shared
equally unless the donation was explicitly made to the national party, the regional group or the Constitu-
ency Group.
6. The national party will forward to Constituency Groups and regional groups the subscription and
donation monies due to them quarterly, along with the latest membership list. Where membership pay-
ments and donations have been made through an external system that involves a charge, the party will
deduct the charge from the membership fee and any donation and the remainder will be divided equally
forwarded to the Constituency Group.
MOTION F
Proposer: TRINITY YOUNG GREENS
Format of Policy Documents
Amend section 3.2.1 of the Rules & Procedures for Policy Development as follows:
3.2.1 Each Policy Document shall consist of:
i. a summary and key points
ii. a statement of Green Party philosophy, specific to the policy;
iii. an introduction which provides historical background, assessment of the past and present politi-
cal situation, and statement of the current situation;
iv. an indication of goals and of steps towards those goals, showing the possible means of imple-
mentation (e.g. government, organisation, household);
v. bibliography, written according to an international recognized format, and with url links to all
reports available online
The Chairperson of Policy Council shall be empowered to mandate a standardised format
for policy for policy documents.
26MOTIONS
NON- RÚIN
TECHNICAL
MOTIONS
MOTION 1
GNÁTHRÚIN
Proposer: Young Greens
Sex Work
The Green Party advocates for the decriminalization of sex work and regulation based on the New
Zealand model.
MOTION 2
Proposer: Mayo
Capitalism
That the Green Party identifies as explicitly anti-capitalist and acknowledges that neoliberal capitalism is
incompatible with the survival of the majority of life on earth. In line with the party principles of social,
economic, and, environmental justice we will work to move past the capitalist mode of economic
organisation towards one that will encourage a truly ecological and equitable society. This commitment
to moving past capitalism will be prioritised in all future policies and the party will not support decisions
or policies that expand or solidify the power of the market.
Rationale: Capitalism is entirely unequipped to fix the problems we now face, many of which it has
created or exacerbated. Although much of the party’s recent oireachtas work has been anti capital-
ist, without naming it we allow the taboo around discussing capitalism continue and it is allowed
to be unquestioned. The environmental crisis will not be solved without ending the exploitation of
people and the environment for profit and without redistributing the wealth of the world.
Environmentalism is totally incompatible with capitalism and we can no longer shy away from
talking about it.
MOTION 3
Proposer: UCC Greens
Electoral Co-operation and Entering Coalition Government
The Green Party will not consider any election strategy that involves cooperation with or accommodation
of any right-wing party, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael or any party whose values or policies conflict with those of
the Green Party. This would include, among others, the following: sharing of electoral materials, voting or
electoral pacts & strategies, transfer pacts and entering into a coalition government.
Note: This motion does not amend section 5.8.4 of the party constitution, which would continue to
outline the procedure for entering Government. Convention cannot bind a hypothetical future special
Convention.
5.8.4. Following a General Election, the Party Group in the relevant House [the Dáil] shall have the power
to negotiate with other parties and to decide on all possible political arrangements with other parties,
subject to ratification by a Special National Convention of any decision to participate in a government.
27MOTIONS
NON- RÚIN
TECHNICAL
MOTIONS
GNÁTHRÚIN
MOTION 3 CONT’D
Rationale: The coalition government of Fianna Fáil, the Green Party, the Progressive
Democrats (2007-2009) and independents lead to an electoral collapse for the Green
Party, losing all representation in the Oireachtas, and all but three of its councillors
around the country. The low percentage of votes the party received in 2011 meant that
it lost government funding until the general election of 2016. During this period there
was no green voice in Irish politics in much of the country, and both major parties
(Fianna Fáil & Fine Gael) have shown that their ability to follow through on electoral
promises on climate change with solid policies is actively damaging to the
environment.
MOTION 4
Proposer: Donegal
Public Transport Budget for the North West
The Donegal Greens calls on the party to allocate at least 20% of the public transport budget to the
North West of Ireland (including Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim).
• Build and maintain a rail corridor – from Sligo to Letterkenny and Derry
• Provide e-car charging points in every service station in the region
• Replace every service bus in the region with zero emission buses
• Support private bus companies to make the just transition to zero emission buses
• Double the amount of buses running in the region
• Make public transport in the region free for all
MOTION 5
Proposer: UCD Young Greens
Housing Emergency
The Green Party propose the announcement of a housing emergency in Ireland and for the state to
acquire unused housing owned by vulture funds and property developers for social housing. As well as
that, we support the use of compulsory purchase in order to supply more social housing.
28MOTIONS
NON- RÚIN
TECHNICAL
MOTIONS
GNÁTHRÚIN
MOTION 6
Proposer: Cork
Municipal Waste Collection
The Green Party calls for waste collection services to be put out to tender by (or operated directly by)
local authorities, with one operator per local authority area. Franchises should be awarded once every
five years.
Rationale: To reduce confusion and public dissatisfaction with multiple collection dates. In
urban areas, to reduce traffic congestion, reduce vehicle emissions
(including from standing traffic held up by waste collection vehicles), and improve
safety by reducing the occasions when cars or cycles have to overtake a stationary
vehicle.
MOTION 7
Proposer: Dublin Central
Wealth and Income Redistribution
The Green Party, acknowledging that the transition of our economy to net-zero greenhouse gas
emissions will disproportionately effect the least well-off, supports stronger wealth and income
redistribution.
Rationale: Transitioning from an economy where carbon is priced far below it’s cost to the planet
to an economy where it is fairly priced will lead to an increase in costs, particularly on goods
transported long distances. Even after a transition it is envisaged that resources, in particular
energy, will be constrained. For example the IPCC best case pathway envisages 30% reductions
in energy use by 2030. Proportionately people on lower incomes spend more on cheaper
imported goods and thus are hit harder by the transition. In addition, using consumption based
taxation to alter behavior has the draw back that it restricts access to resources to the poor,
but does not dissuade or limit consumption by the rich. As a result an unfair burden is placed on
lower income groups. Following the principle of a just transition; stronger measures to
redistribute wealth and income should thus be developed.
MOTION 8
Proposer: Dún Laoghaire
Living Wage for Green Party Staff
All salaried Green Party employees should be paid a minimum of the hourly
living wage.
Note: As this is a non-technical motion, it may not be binding.
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