‘A New and Exciting Option in Irish Politics’- Progressive Democrat booklet 1986

From 1986 a booklet ‘A New and Exciting Option in Irish Politics’ from the Progressive Democrats.
Given the current climate, where it is seen as an ideal opportunity for a new party to emerge, it makes interesting reading.

There is a message from Des O’Malley who states “The Progressive Democrats came into existence in response to inherent weaknesses in the
Irish political structure and the disaffection of very many people with the manner this country has been governed in recent years…”
There are a number of different sections to the booklet. These are “Origins and aims of the Progressive Democrats”, ‘What is the philosophy of the party?’,
“Right or Left?” , ‘What about The Economy?’, ‘How can you reduce taxation?’, ‘Can you reduce unemployment?’, ‘Will you tackle difficult social issues?’,
‘Waht hope for Northern Ireland?’, ‘How will party policy be framed?’ and ‘After the next Election?’. And of course ”How do I join?’.

It gives an idea as to what the parties policies were initially and also what was attractive about them.