‘Ireland will not be any longer a unhealthy nation to live in’ – Green Occasion leader Eamon Ryan

Confronting the Rise of Polarization and Disinformation

Eamon Ryan opened his speech by highlighting a disturbing trend in Irish and global politics: the surge of divisive rhetoric fueled by misinformation and fear. He cautioned that this polarization threatens the very foundations of democracy in Ireland. Rejecting simplistic labels like "right-wing shift" or "conservative wave," Ryan described this movement as nihilistic, characterized by a rejection of established values and an anger that risks becoming corrosive and self-destructive.

Ryan’s concerns reflect a broader global pattern where political discourse is increasingly fractured, complicating efforts to build consensus on critical issues such as climate change and social justice. He emphasized that Ireland must resist these negative forces to preserve a tolerant and inclusive society.

Championing Ireland’s Tradition of Inclusivity and Compassion

Drawing on Ireland’s historical figures and values, Ryan invoked the legacy of national patriots like Wolfe Tone, Daniel O’Connell, James Connolly, and Patrick Pearse, all of whom combined national pride with a global outlook. He linked this tradition to contemporary efforts by Green Party Integration Minister Roderic O’Gorman, who has been instrumental in providing emergency accommodation for refugees fleeing conflict zones such as Ukraine.

Ryan condemned recent attacks on O’Gorman’s home by masked assailants, framing these acts as incompatible with Ireland’s identity as a welcoming and diverse nation. He reaffirmed the Republic’s commitment to tolerance, respect for all backgrounds, and support for those in need, positioning these principles as central to the country’s future.

Addressing Ireland’s Housing and Infrastructure Challenges

A significant portion of Ryan’s agenda focuses on improving living conditions through sustainable housing and infrastructure development. He criticized what he termed a "politics of skepticism" that underestimates Ireland’s progress and potential. Contrary to narratives portraying Ireland as an unhealthy or failing nation, Ryan highlighted tangible achievements such as halving per capita emissions over the past two decades and expanding retrofitting programs that improve home energy efficiency.

The Green Party plans to accelerate affordable housing construction by reducing costs through the restoration of vacant and derelict properties. Complementary investments in water, transport, and energy infrastructure are also prioritized to support sustainable growth and enhance quality of life.

The Urgency of Climate Action Amid Global Crises

Ryan framed climate change as the defining challenge of our time, warning that recent global events—such as the war in Ukraine, conflicts in Gaza and Sudan—have shifted attention away from environmental priorities. He stressed that ignoring climate science jeopardizes the security of future generations and the planet’s natural systems.

Citing data that the past ten months have been the warmest on record and that global average temperatures have surpassed the critical 1.5°C threshold, Ryan described the risk of irreversible environmental damage. He pointed to Ireland’s own experience with persistent heavy rainfall, which has disrupted agriculture and rural livelihoods.

Ryan also criticized the European Council’s draft strategy for the next five years, which he believes undermines the European Green Deal. He vowed that the Green Party would resist any rollback of climate commitments and called for electing Green MEPs who can influence policy decisively at the European level.

A Call to Action: Voting Green for Ireland’s Future

Concluding his speech, Ryan urged voters to support the Green Party as a means to protect Ireland’s environment, improve public health, and strengthen democratic values. He emphasized that Green policies benefit everyone by creating healthier communities, reducing energy costs, and preserving natural resources.

Ryan highlighted recent policy successes such as the removal of VAT on solar panels and the elimination of planning permission requirements for their installation, measures designed to accelerate Ireland’s transition to renewable energy. He framed the upcoming elections as a pivotal moment to determine whether the country will continue advancing green initiatives or succumb to forces opposing environmental progress.

What this means

Eamon Ryan’s address at the Green Party’s pre-election conference articulates a clear and urgent vision for Ireland’s future—one rooted in environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and democratic resilience. As the nation grapples with internal and external challenges, Ryan’s message underscores the importance of collective action to safeguard Ireland’s health, prosperity, and global standing. The upcoming elections represent a critical opportunity for voters to decide whether to embrace this green vision or risk setbacks in the fight against climate change and social division. Ultimately, Ireland’s path forward depends on balancing pragmatic policy solutions with a steadfast commitment to core values that have long defined the nation.