Green Party in Government

In 2007, the Green Party entered government, for the first time in its history. In 2009, it negotiated a transformational new program for government.

Since 2007, a considerable amount has been achieved. Here are some of the Green Party's achievements in Government:

Education

• The plan to reintroduce third level fees was dropped in the new Programme for Government.
• Education was also protected from cutbacks in the new Programme for Government.

Energy efficiency measures

These are likely to save Irish people BILLIONS of euros in energy costs. Many of the measures will also help tackle climate change.

• Building regulations make new houses 40% more energy efficient, rising to 60% in 2010.
• €130 million per year is is now being made available in grants to help people make their homes more energy efficient. This has already created over 5000 jobs.
• Motor tax based on carbon emissions.

Jobs

• Over 15,000 green jobs created since 2007

Political Reform

• Directly elected mayor for Dublin

  In a few months, people will get to vote on what they want their city to be like now and in years to come. For the first time, Dubliners will have a direct say in urban planning, transport, utilities such as water and many other strategically important decisions. The four Dublin local authorities have a combined budget of €3 billion and they will have to do what the mayor tells them.