Irish Examiner view: A welcome move but a difficult task 

Holly Cairns, the prospective new leader of the Social Democrats. File picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The confirmation of Holly Cairns as the leader-designate of the Social Democratic Party is something that should be universally welcomed in a country not generally known for its political boldness.

As a young woman from rural Ireland, Holly Cairns does not exactly fit any Irish political identikit profile, but that is something that should be embraced by her political rivals and the electorate.