Social Democrats’ National Conference to focus on cost-of-living crisis

The Social Democrats’ National Conference takes place in Dublin this weekend – the first in-person conference the party has held since 2019.

Commenting on the conference, co-leader Róisín Shortall said:

“This will be our first in-person conference since 2019 – and we are really looking forward to getting into a room with members, from all over the country, and discussing the major issues we face as a country. It’s been far too long since we had an opportunity to do that.

“The purpose of our conference is not just to identify the problems the country faces. We all know what they are. We want to talk about solutions – because they do exist. The policy changes the Social Democrats would make that would lead to positive change.

“Primarily, we need an emergency budget now to provide some relief to those who are really struggling to put food on the table and pay their bills; we want to seriously address the key issue in housing – the affordability crisis – and drive down the cost of homes; and we want to see the Sláintecare reforms to our health service actually implemented, so that we have better health outcomes and lower health costs for everybody.”

Co-leader Catherine Murphy said:

“We’re delighted to be hosting some really interesting discussions this weekend, on a broad range of issues. A major focus will be the cost-of-living crisis, which is currently spiralling out of control. People on low and middle incomes are under extreme pressure, just to make ends meet. We need to see action now.

“Another key priority for the party is housing – and making the critical changes that are required to address the affordability crisis. Housing Analyst Lorcan Sirr will be joining our Housing Spokesperson Cian O’Callaghan to discuss the policy changes we must make now.

“UCC Professor in Sustainable Energy Hannah Daly will be joining our Climate Spokesperson Jennifer Whitmore to discuss the climate crisis – and how the country can meet its climate targets. Faye Hayden, from campaign group NOISI, will also be discussing the crisis in disability services with our Disability Spokesperson Holly Cairns. Disability services must be properly resourced, and staffed, to allow disabled people live full lives.

“Social Protection Spokesperson Gary Gannon will chair a discussion on tax transparency with Conor O’Neill from Christian Aid. The Social Democrats will also be renewing our call for the establishment of an independent Anti-Corruption Agency – a watchdog with real teeth to stamp out corruption and cronyism.

“As we emerge from the pandemic we have an opportunity to make substantive changes that can improve all of our lives.

“The alternative is a continuation of the status quo – our perpetual crises in housing, healthcare and a worsening cost-of-living crisis.”