South Dublin Independent councillor Eoin Ó Broin joins Social Democrats

South Dublin Independent councillor for Clondalkin, Eoin Ó Broin has announced that he is joining the Social Democrats.

Ó Broin was elected to the county council for the first time in 2019.

Social Democrats co-leaders Catherine Murphy and Róisín Shortall have welcomed the news, saying that Ó Broin is a “tireless community activist.”

After the announcement, Ó Broin said his “primary goal in politics is delivering change” so the “Social Democrats were the obvious choice for me.

“I am looking forward to being a member of a progressive centre-left party that has a real vision for Ireland as a fairer, more inclusive and more sustainable country.

“While I enjoyed my time as an Independent councillor, I feel that I will be able to accomplish more for my local constituents as a member of the Social Democrats.

“Our values and political priorities are completely aligned.”

Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy said: “Eoin is a tireless community activist in Clondalkin and has used his position on South Dublin County Council to advocate for better public transport and cycling links, improved access to housing and more sustainable environmental policies.

“Eoin’s background, particularly his PhD on energy efficiency in homes and his experience working abroad, means he has a real contribution to make on the most important issues now facing the country – namely, housing and the climate crisis.

“A lot of change, in society, begins at local level and I am delighted that Eoin has joined the Social Democrats to fight for change from within the party.”

Roisin Shortall said the party is “thrilled” that Ó Broin has joined its ranks and his “focus on sustainability, equality and reform means that he is a natural fit for the party.

“Eoin’s decision to join the Social Democrats – the second councillor to join the party in the past two months – is further evidence that the party is continuing to grow.

!We are very ambitious for the party, and the country, and look forward to working with Eoin to help bring about real and lasting change in our society.”