Greens vote could derail NAMA

GREEN leader John Gormley last night admitted the party grassroots would force an internal vote on NAMA that could derail Government plans to deal with the banking crisis.

If two-thirds of those present at a special convention opposed NAMA, Green TDs would be expected to reject legislation establishing the so-called “bad bank” when it goes before the Dáil in mid-September.

The Government would be unable to pass the legislation without their support.

A convention must be held if it is demanded by five or more constituency organisations. Last night, five of the constituencies had done exactly that – Kerry North, Waterford, Dublin South Central, Dublin Central and Dublin South West – but party headquarters rejected the validity of the Dublin South West motion.

Nonetheless, Mr Gormley conceded the convention would likely go ahead. “Yes, I would imagine it will go ahead. It’s just a question of logistics when it can take place. But I’m very happy to accommodate the concerns of party members.”

He denied it was a sign the grassroots were getting nervous about staying in government, and said he had confidence members would ultimately support NAMA.

Green councillor Brian Meaney, meanwhile, suggested the Government should seek a fresh mandate from the electorate in order to proceed with NAMA.

“The implications on this generation and future generations perhaps for the next 30 years are enormous and I think the democratically proper thing to do would be to seek a mandate to ensure that its introduction is democratic.”