Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has declined to say if Dublin Lord Mayor Hazel Chu can remain as chairwoman of the party following her decision to run in the Seanad byelections as an Independent. However, Ms Chu secured the signatures of six Green parliamentarians for her nomination, as well as three Independent ones. Significantly, Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin was one of those who signed nomination papers for Ms Chu, who needed nine signatures. The action by Ms Chu, and its support by Ms Martin, who is also a senior Government Minister, has highlighted the internal divisions within the party. Minister of State for Community Development Joe O’Brien, one of those who nominated Ms Chu, is also expected to vote for the Government candidates.

Source: The Irish Times March 23, 2021 20:09 UTC