…defend the interests of our core constituency – low and middle income earners – by having key elements of our Social Democratic policies implemented. My hope is that the outcome of the current FG and Labour negotiations will enable us to be in government to do that, but since our priority has to be implementation of core policies, we must drive a hard bargain, and be prepared to go into opposition should FG not be prepared to accept this requirement. - Proinsias De Rossa 04/03/2011
The aim of this website is to evaluate the Irish Labour Party’s Social-Democratic credentials in government. Considering the highly disappointing reign of the British Labour Party in power – and the similar performance of many self-styled ‘left of centre’ parties across Europe in recent years – it is essential that a strong focus and public pressure is put upon the Irish Labour party to live up to its professed Social-Democratic principles. In this context, the website will offer a left-wing critique of Labour’s actions in power as a coalition member of government with Fine Gael. The purpose of this analysis is not to unduly criticise the actions of the party, but rather to appraise their performance on their own terms; namely, as a party that is dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental leftist principles. These are the development of a more materially equitable society, the defence and advancement of strong social protections, the pursuit of progressive civil rights, and the creation of robust employment and socio-economic development for all citizens.
Everybody on the left agrees with these goals. Thus, the website is aimed at all those on the broad spectrum of the Irish left who want to see the Labour party succeed in these aims, and not disappoint or betray these principles like so many Social-Democratic/Labour parties have done in other countries. Notwithstanding well known and standard divisions within the Irish left, the website welcomes the contribution and involvement of all those on the left who may find common ground in holding the Labour Party accountable for keeping their promises regarding core social democratic values.
From the reformist to the revolutionary left; from the moderate labour member, to the more strongly left leaning ones; from working-class to middle-class citizens, union and non-union, with sympathy and allegiance to the left; we can agree upon this: In a time of economic crisis, The Irish Labour Party cannot – and will not be allowed to – turn its back on left principles.
