Owen Hanley (Social Democrats- Galway City East)

Name: Owen Hanley

Age: 23

Preferred pronouns: He/Him Sé/é

Party: Social Democrats

Local Electoral Area: Galway City East

Is this your first time running? Yes

What are your reasons for running as a young person in politics?

My generation are the children of austerity; we didn’t know the Celtic Tiger but we knew its consequences. A small group of people made the choices that destroyed the country. And it told my generation not to dream because we couldn’t afford to. I think it’s quite clear though that my generation has rejected that and will continue to reject austerity politics and 20th century parties.

Marriage equality and Repeal the 8th were hugely activating experiences that were both hard fought for, and at the same time a given. We demanded the bare minimum of decency but parties shouldn’t expect to be rewarded for treating people with basic decency. As a newly emerging generation I do not think we will wait for “our time” to come. The many challenges we face, such as in housing and the climate catastrophe, demand immediate action.

A 21st century Ireland desperately needs a 21st century voice to fight for it.