Green Party Conference Focuses on By-Elections and Climate Action

The Green Party is holding its annual conference in Co Kilkenny, aiming to build momentum ahead of upcoming by-elections in Dublin Central and Galway West. The two-day event, taking place at the Newpark Hotel, will feature a keynote speech from party leader Roderic O’Gorman and the newly elected deputy leader, Councillor Hazel Chu.

Leadership and Recent Elections

Councillor Hazel Chu was elected as Deputy Leader of the Green Party on January 28, 2026, succeeding Marianne Butler. She secured 63.2% of the vote from party members. Roderic O’Gorman welcomed Chu’s election, highlighting her experience on Dublin City Council and previous leadership roles within the party.

The party is currently represented in the Dáil by Roderic O’Gorman, representing Dublin West, after losing 11 seats in the 2024 General Election.

By-Election Strategy

The Green Party will be contesting the upcoming by-elections in Dublin Central with Councillor Janet Horner and in Galway West with former councillor Niall Murphy. O’Gorman emphasized the importance of the party’s message in light of what he described as the current government’s abandonment of climate commitments.

“Our members are passionate advocates of climate action and social justice, and that energy will galvanise support for Janet Horner and Niall Murphy in the forthcoming by-elections,” O’Gorman stated.

Conference Themes

The conference is expected to focus on climate action and social justice. Chu stated that climate action, nature restoration, social justice, and an equal economy are core priorities of modern politics. She similarly emphasized the need for the Green Party to be “bold, ambitious and ready to lead.”

The party acknowledges a period of transition following the 2024 election cycle, which saw them lose two European seats and over half of their councillors. Compared to the British Green Party, which is experiencing increased support, the Irish Greens are focused on rebuilding and reinvigorating their base.