Party members meeting for the Social Democrats’ first in-person conference since 2019 on Saturday described an “exciting atmosphere” and a feeling that there was “enormous potential” for the party to grow in the next election.
Speaking to The Irish Times, Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore said the party was “in a really good place” with six TDs and 20 councillors across the country.
“We’re only in existence seven years now so it’s a really big achievement and I think there is enormous potential for us to grow much bigger,” she said.
“It’s been three years since we’ve all been together in a room and there’s really great attendance, huge energy and positivity. It’s quite a motivating time to be able to come together. The members are very engaged on the cost of living, the climate crisis and housing.”
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The conference heard proposals for a range of measures to deal with the cost of living crisis, and 29 motions on a number of issues including sustainable farming, transgender rights and public transport.
Whitmore said the party hoped to expand in the next election.
“We want to expand. You can really feel that momentum in the room today. We have branches across the country and we are going to put new candidates across for elections. We need to have a really different approach to how we govern this country,” she said.
Dublin TD Cian O’Callaghan said the party was “making an impact” due to the work of the four new TDs over the past two years.
“We had some very good discussions today. For a young party we’ve already done well electorally. In terms of the next local and general elections, we have a good opportunity to grow.”
“We’re considered to be established now, people are now longer saying they haven’t heard of us when we’re out campaigning, and they have told us they want to see change that is grounded and realistic,” he said.
Prior to the conference, Waterford delegate Cathal Quealy felt the party was “running out of a little bit of steam” but Saturday renewed energy and motivation among members.
“On a personal level I think a change of leadership before the next election would be good. I think Murphy and Shorthall have done a great job to get the party to where it is now, but I’d like to see a leadership challenge,” he said.
“The most disappointing thing has been the failure to drive forward Slaintecare,” he said, though he believed the party had “held the opposition to account” and had strong potential for the future.
Viktoria Olukitibi, a delegate from Co Clare, said there had been “exciting” discussions throughout the day on housing and disability rights.
“I’m very happy with where the party is. The profile of the party has really increased with the work of our six TDs which makes me excited for the future. I think our approach to politics is resonating with people. I’m optimistic and I believe we will grow in the next election,” Olukitibi said.
For Deirdre McCormack, from Co Wicklow, it was her first conference as a member who joined two years ago.
“It’s great to finally meet people in person and come together as like minded people. It’s a really exciting time for the party and for the future of Ireland. People are really connecting with what the party is saying and doing in the Dáil,” she said.
“I think we will get more councillors elected throughout the country in the next election.”
