Members back one person-one vote

Sweeping democratic reforms of Fianna Fáil’s internal decision-making were ushered in by the 73rd ard fheis.

The membership unanimously backed moving to one person/one vote in areas like selecting election candidates.

A closed session of the conference saw some 2,500 delegates debate the issue and pass all 14 motions put forward by the leadership on matters such as introducing stronger ethical safeguards in public life.

Opposition to the modernising thrust of the leadership push was muted as grassroots activists embraced reform.

Moves towards giving members a role in leadership elections and endorsing negotiations for coalition governments were also introduced.

Despite having no women in its 19-member Dáil delegation, party members rejected moves to set a 30% quota for women candidates.

However, motions backing gay marriage equality and adoption rights for same sex couple were passed by party members.

Delegates backed motions calling for new legislation banning corporate donations to political parties and the introduction of a household charge based on home value.

A plan to reduce the voting age to 16 was rejected by grass roots members but opposition to the septic tank tax was passed.

Senator Terry Leyden condemned the Government’s failure to bring-in a referendum on children’s rights — despite the fact the previous Fianna Fáil-Green administration continually put off such a vote.

There was a strong anti- RTÉ feeling at the ard fheis as the broadcaster was accused of being biased against Fianna Fáil. Delegates demanded cuts in salaries for top stars as an act of solidarity with ordinary people in the economic downturn.