Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)

The electorate, therefore, will be given a choice between an incompetent Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrats Administration and a bland, uninspiring Fine Gael-Labour Party clone. They are the Dolly alliance, a chip off the old block and a mirror image of the current Government. All these parties readily accept and actively seek corporate donations. Because of this, they are tainted by big business and the whiff of corruption even when their intentions are honourable. They are afraid to make long-term, sensible decisions for the good of the country because they are always focused on short-term electoral considerations of a populist nature. It does not matter which of the larger parties is in government following the next election. Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats are tired and need to be given a break but the supposed Fine Gael-Labour Party alternative is more of the same.

If an election is called and voters want policies that are visionary, sensible and address quality of life issues for current and future generations, the only choice is Green. The more Green Party Deputies returned next year, the more people will have a focused and honest voice. Whether it is Tweedle Dum or Tweedle Dee, the Green Party will make the difference. We have policies to improve our health and education systems; to protect our environment; to guard against bad planning and corruption; to tackle gridlock; to improve Government and democratic input; to deal with the looming energy crisis; and to protect and enhance our quality of life.

Deputy Cuffe will outline reasons the Green Party offers the only alternative following the next election.

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