Green Party Conference: O’Gorman Eyes By-Election Momentum & Rebuilding Push

Green Party Leader Sees Momentum After UK By-Election Win

Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman has declared a “Green tide” is rising, citing the recent by-election success of Hannah Spencer in the Manchester constituency of Gordon and Denton as evidence of growing support for the party’s policies. Speaking at the Green Party’s annual conference in Kilkenny on Saturday, February 28, 2026, O’Gorman expressed hope that this momentum could translate into gains in upcoming by-elections in Dublin Central and Galway West. The comments come as the party seeks to rebuild following significant losses in the last general election, where they lost 11 of their 12 seats.

Rebuilding After Electoral Setbacks

Despite the optimistic outlook, O’Gorman acknowledged the substantial perform ahead to revitalize the party’s standing in Irish politics. The party is focused on rebuilding “from the grassroots back up,” according to Senator Malcolm Noonan, who noted a strong turnout of over 300 delegates at the Kilkenny conference. This rebuilding effort comes after a disappointing general election result, where the Green Party saw a significant reduction in its representation.

Government’s Environmental Retreat Fuels Green Appeal

O’Gorman criticized the current government, accusing it of retreating from key environmental commitments. He argued that this shift away from previously stated environmental goals is resonating negatively with voters. “People also notice what this government is doing. They see their retreat from key environmental issues, and people didn’t vote for that,” O’Gorman stated, as reported by RTÉ. He believes voters will reflect on this perceived backtracking in the upcoming by-elections, potentially leading to increased support for Green candidates.

Focus on Social and Economic Issues

The Irish Times reported that O’Gorman’s keynote address at the conference placed a greater emphasis on social and economic issues than previous Green Party leaders, signaling a potential broadening of the party’s appeal. This shift in focus aims to connect with voters on a wider range of concerns beyond environmental policy. He urged party members to support Janet Horner in Dublin Central and Niall Murphy in Galway West, framing their campaigns as an opportunity to demonstrate a turning of the tide for the Green Party.

Criticism of Government Policies

O’Gorman leveled criticism at the government’s record on several fronts. He specifically called out what he described as a “woolly commitment” to protecting children online, arguing that the proposed ban on social media for under-16s is merely a deferral of action to the EU level. He also accused the government of scapegoating vulnerable people in the context of migration and failing to address the over-reliance on private accommodation providers. He further claimed the government has raided a climate and nature fund, potentially jeopardizing progress on environmental targets.

UK By-Election as a Catalyst

The victory of Hannah Spencer in Gordon and Denton has been presented by O’Gorman as a significant morale boost and a demonstration that a progressive, evidence-based approach to climate and social issues can resonate with voters. He characterized the win as proof that “the politics of hope can win over the politics of rage.” This success in the UK is being actively used to inspire and motivate Green Party members in Ireland as they prepare for the Dublin Central and Galway West by-elections. RTÉ News provides further details on the conference proceedings.

Party Strategy and Future Goals

Beyond the immediate focus on the upcoming by-elections, O’Gorman outlined a new strategic plan for the Green Party, encompassing efforts to regain seats on councils, in the Dáil, and in European Parliament. He emphasized the need to refine the party’s message, grow its membership, and improve its fundraising capabilities. Delegates at the conference expressed a desire to see the Green Party re-enter government, but only if it can secure a stronger commitment to implementing its policies in a future program for government. The Irish Times offers additional insights into the party’s strategic direction.

O’Gorman’s Background and Leadership

Roderic O’Gorman has served as leader of the Green Party since July 2024 and has been a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Dublin West constituency since 2020. Prior to becoming party leader, he served as Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth from 2020 to 2025. He holds a PhD in law from Trinity College Dublin and previously lectured at Griffith College and Dublin City University. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of his career, and background.

Member Perspectives on the Path Forward

Party members attending the conference expressed a mix of optimism and realism. Donnacha Geoghegan, a member from Dublin North-west, believes the UK by-election win demonstrates the potential for a Green comeback. Pace Borza Butterly, from Dublin Bay South, acknowledged past disappointments and suggested the party was unfairly blamed for some government policies during its previous time in coalition. These perspectives highlight the internal discussions within the Green Party as it navigates its path toward regaining electoral strength.