Notes On The Front

An Open Letter to Ciaran Cuffe, TD

Dear Ciaran

I read your speech before the Ireland Institute with great interest. There is much common ground between the Left and the Greens. While various political parties may be on opposite sides in the Dail, we are not, ultimately, politically opposed. In that constructive spirit I’d like to discuss some of your observations - specifically, your contention that the trade unionists are somehow ‘vested’ interests. I realise this has been a source of some friction between the Left and the Greens and, I would argue, considerable confusion. So let’s look at the reality.

Do Your Own Thing

It is well and truly open season on the Green Party. In their first private members session Fine Gael moved a motion condemning hospital co-location. Their next motion dealt with the Ringsend incinerator. It would be nice to think the largest opposition party intends to drive new public sector and environmental agendas – but it would be as well for the Left to be sceptical.

And to be cautious - about being co-opted into a strategy that may not suit its own long-term interest.