Social Democrats select their Cork election candidates

THE Social Democrats have selected three candidates to represent the party at the next General Election.

Party members gathered in the Imperial Hotel recently where the candidates for the Cork North Central, Cork South Central and Cork North West constituencies were selected.

The party Social Democrats now have candidates running in 16 constituencies with more to be announced in the coming weeks and months.

Sinéad Halpin was selected in to represent Cork North Central. She said that once the public sees what her party has to offer their voices would be heard "loud and clear."

“The current government’s actions say that 'just about coping' is the best they have to offer. These actions tell us that a homeless family can cope being in one room for months or years on end. If you need a termination of pregnancy, you can cope by going on a plane. If you are a young working family, you can cope by just managing every month to pay all the bills, childcare and save for a home of your own becoming a distant dream with current house prices," she said.

"Coping should not be the pinnacle of achievement. We have an obligation to help everyone reach their full potential and live a full and healthy life."

Commenting on her selection as Social Democrats candidate for Cork South Central, Patricia O’Dwyer said: “I believe that the values of Cork and Ireland are fundamentally social democratic values: Universal Healthcare, Affordable Housing and Accessible Education for all. "

"A populist party may change its clothes depending on the direction of the wind but our values are clear: progress, equality, democracy and sustainability."

Ciarán McCarthy who was selected for Cork North West said: “My motivations is get involved with the Social Democrats are fairness and equality. Caring about the most vulnerable in our society forms the basis of our party. Universal healthcare in our communities, affordable housing, reducing the costs of living, an anti-corruption agency and empowering local business and communities are worth fighting for and why I’m running.”

Political parties across Ireland have been holding conventions in recent weeks. Despite the resignation of France Fitzgerald that prevented a snap election mosty commentators feel an election is likely in the short to medium term.