Social democracy is a political system according to which social justice and equality can be achieved within the framework of a market economy.

The Social Democrats was founded by Roisin Shortall and Catherine Murphy in 2015. Why? Simply because, despite their claims, no party in Ireland was true to the values of social democracy – fairness, equality and sustainability. It means good quality public services, equitable taxation, inclusive open democracy and vibrant, diverse economy.

Too many times, the old political parties claimed to protect the less well-off and vulnerable. Too many times, people were desperately disappointed and let down by the established parties. Both Catherine and Roisin offered a new vision, based on their record and their vision for a better Ireland.

At the local elections in 2019, 20 SocDem Councillors were elected. In 2020 general election, 6 SocDem TD’s were elected. Support for the SocDems is growing. And now with Holly Cairns appointed as our new leader, we’ve seen our support in the polls rise to 9%. We offer a fresh voice for those who were let down and were simply not been happy to vote for the old parties.

As Holly said on her appointment, the Social Democrats are a party “for a new era – not defined by old loyalties, old politics, old policies, cosy business connections or jobs for the boys. Our guiding principles are a fair society and a strong economy, underpinned by honest politics”.