PDs refuse non-Europeans as party members

The Progressive Democrats refuse to accept non-EU citizens as party members despite the fact that all resident immigrants, including asylum seekers and refugees, can vote in local elections.

A report, published later today, reveals that the Progressive Democrats is the only political party which refuses non-EU citizens as members.

The findings will be deeply embarrassing to PD party president, Justice Minister Michael McDowell and party leader, Tánaiste Mary Harney, who between them oversee the Government's immigration policies.

The report, called Positive Politics, is based on responses to questionnaires sent to all political parties on the inclusion of immigrants in politics.

Commissioned by the Africa Solidarity Centre (ASC), it found that none of the political parties has implemented any measures to actively entice non-nationals into politics.