Independents in Irish Party Democracy book launch

On 4th July 2017, Shane Ross, Independent TD and Minister of Transport, Trade and Tourism will launch ‘Independents in Irish party democracy’ by Dr Liam Weeks of the Department of Government, University College Cork.

This is the first ever study of the almost unique phenomenon of the Independent politician in Ireland. From Alfie Byrne to Tony Gregory to Jackie Healy-Rae to Shane Ross, Independents have been significant players in the Irish political system. They are the ultimate party crashers, who have been able to make and break governments.

This book examines and explains why Independents have persisted in Ireland. Written with both the general and specialist reader in mind, it will enlighten those with an interest in Irish politics, as well as those studying political parties and elections at any level.

The culmination of fifteen years of research by the author, and based on extensive historical material, interviews and survey data, the book also includes unique individual contributions by independent TDs, Senators and MEPs, both past and present, including Finian McGrath, Maureen O’Sullivan, John A. Murphy, Kathy Sinnott, and Sean D. Barrett.

‘Independents in Irish party democracy’ will be available at a special launch price on the night of €35. The RRP is €90.

This event is supported by the Political Studies Association of Ireland and the Department of Government, University College Cork.