Labour conference offers opportunity for policy shift.

The Labour Party conference, taking place in Galway this weekend, offers the party an opportunity to shift policy back in favour of ordinary working peopl

The agenda for the Labour Party conference in Galway demonstrates grassroots desire for fundamental changes in government policy across a whole plethora of areas.

Overall, I think there are two key messages for Labour ministers coming from the grassroots. First, that we recognise the gravity of the economic crisis and that Labour ministers are working very hard in tough circumstances but also that there are still clear policy choices open to this country.

The Fine Gael approach is a mimick of Fianna Fail slash spending on vital services, tax those on moderate incomes and above all keep their rich friends like Dennis O’Brien happy.

Labour can demand a radically different approach including higher taxes on the wealthy, a targeted lifting of the flawed public sector recruitment ban and a protection for those on low income. Such measures are required to maintain social solidarity and get the economy moving.

Some of the motions to be welcomed include:
• A new higher rate of tax on those earning over €100,000 a year
• Lifting the moratorium on recruitment in the health service
• Opposition to privatisation of public services

I am looking forward to participating in what promises to be a weekend of robust and fraternal debate about how address the economic crisis facing our country.