Social Democrats select Rory Hearne as candidate for European elections

Mr Hearne is associate Professor in social policy at Maynooth University and author of the book 'Gaffs', which set out his argument to solving the housing crisis. Picture: Gareth Chaney

The Social Democrats has announced that Rory Hearne, the housing campaigner, author, and academic, has been officially selected as its Midlands-North-West candidate in the upcoming European elections.

Mr Hearne is an associate Professor in social policy at Maynooth University and author of the book Gaffs, which set out his argument to solving the housing crisis.

Speaking after his selection, Mr Hearne said: “Across Ireland, we are experiencing a social and economic catastrophe in the form of the housing crisis. There is an entire generation of people locked out of buying a home; trapped in a cycle of extortionate rents; stuck living in their childhood bedrooms; forced to emigrate; and, even worse, pushed into homelessness.

“As a dad of young children, it breaks my heart that there are still thousands of children in Ireland living in homelessness, growing up in hotels and in family hubs. 

"Like all parents, I worry every day about what the future is going to look like for our children, from the housing crisis to the environment and the growing divide in Ireland.

As an academic in Maynooth for over 10 years, I have seen how the housing, environmental and cost of living crises have impacted on students and people living in Kildare and across the Midlands-North-West constituency. I’ve been contacted by people from across the constituency, from Laois to Donegal, who are living the crisis and looking for solutions and hope.

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns said Mr Hearne is "a prominent voice on the most important issue facing Ireland today".

"He advocates for those most affected by the housing crisis and is absolutely dedicated to ensuring that Ireland becomes a country where this and future generations can afford to call home.

"EU policy decisions affect every aspect of our lives and our communities. What happens in Brussels or Strasbourg can help deliver social and affordable housing, improve workers’ rights and bring down energy costs.

"While there is lot Europe could do, we need strong voices like Rory’s to make it a reality. I have no doubt that, if elected, he will stand up to corporate interests and campaign for the change we need to see in Ireland.” 

The party has previously selected human rights campaigner Sinead Gibney as its candidate for the Dublin constituency.