Quick Read
- Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin to adopt an assertive approach when visiting Donald Trump.
- Cairns called for a public vote on removing Ireland’s ‘triple lock’ mechanism for peacekeeping missions.
- She proposed increased defense spending and cybersecurity investments for a neutral Ireland.
- The Social Democrats leader advocated for new laws granting individuals ‘ownership’ over their online images and voices.
- Cairns criticized the government’s ‘weak’ response to the ‘Grok controversy’ and online child abuse images.
CORK (Azat TV) – Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns delivered a comprehensive policy address at her party’s national conference in Cork this past weekend, urging Taoiseach Micheál Martin to adopt an assertive and non-appeasing approach during his forthcoming visit with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. Cairns also called for a significant overhaul of online safety regulations to combat image manipulation, deepfakes, and the pervasive spread of toxic content.
Addressing approximately 400 delegates at the Silver Springs Hotel, Cairns emphasized that Ireland must clearly convey to the US President that it stands with its EU allies and will not ‘bow down to bullies.’ Her remarks come as the Taoiseach prepares for a visit to Washington next month, marking a critical juncture for Irish-US relations under a potential new presidential term.
A Call for Assertiveness in US Relations
Holly Cairns’s primary message regarding international diplomacy centered on the need for Ireland to abandon what she termed a ‘policy of appeasement’ towards the Trump administration. She explicitly stated that Taoiseach Micheál Martin should tell President Trump that Ireland is ‘not joining the Board of Peace, and we do not bow down to bullies.’ This assertion signals a desire for a more robust and principled Irish foreign policy, particularly in alignment with European Union partners, rather than seeking individual accommodation.
The Social Democrats leader’s comments reflect a growing sentiment for clarity and strength in Ireland’s diplomatic engagements, especially concerning major global powers. Her focus on avoiding ‘appeasement’ suggests a critique of past or perceived future concessions that might undermine Ireland’s values or its position within the broader European framework.
Re-evaluating Ireland’s Neutrality and Defense
In a notable policy departure, Cairns also addressed Ireland’s long-standing neutrality, arguing that maintaining this status necessitates a substantial increase in national security and defense spending. ‘Because being neutral does not mean being defenceless,’ she stated, outlining a vision for a more self-reliant defense posture. This includes improving pay and conditions for defense personnel, bolstering support for peacekeepers, and investing in critical modern defense measures such as cybersecurity and anti-drone technology.
Furthermore, Cairns challenged the current Coalition government to seek a public mandate before considering any removal of the ‘triple lock’ mechanism. This mechanism requires UN Security Council approval, Dáil Éireann (Irish Parliament) approval, and government approval for Ireland’s participation in overseas peacekeeping missions. ‘Put it to the people. And let us vote on it,’ she urged, emphasizing democratic accountability on matters of national security and international engagement.
Tackling Online Toxicity and Deepfakes
A significant portion of Cairns’s address was dedicated to the ‘toxic nature’ of social media and its detrimental impact on young people and minorities. She called for the introduction of new legislation that would grant every individual ‘ownership of their own body and own voice’ online. This legal framework, she argued, would ensure that images and unique identities are protected from manipulation and violation by ‘bad actors.’
Cairns highlighted the alarming rise of AI-generated threats, specifically citing the potential for ‘AI apps to undress you’ if individuals dare to challenge online hate. She criticized the government for allowing social media and tech companies to largely self-regulate, which she equated to ‘no regulation at all.’ Referencing the recent ‘Grok controversy,’ where child sex abuse images were reportedly created on an ‘industrial scale,’ Cairns slammed the government’s response as ‘weak,’ contrasting it with more decisive actions taken in countries like France, where social media offices were raided. She also suggested that banning social media for under-16s should be seriously considered, noting that the existing ban for under-13s ‘simply does not work.’ The ultimate goal, she stressed, is to make online spaces safer by addressing the ‘toxic algorithms that are feeding people hate and toxicity by default.’
Social Democrats’ Future Electoral Ambitions
Beyond policy, Cairns also outlined the Social Democrats’ electoral strategy for the upcoming general election. She confirmed that the party intends to field a candidate in each of Ireland’s 43 constituencies, demonstrating a clear ambition for national growth and representation. The party also introduced its two by-election candidates, Cllr Daniel Ennis in Dublin Central and Míde Nic Fhionnlaoich in Galway West.
Cairns affirmed the party’s commitment to continue collaborating with other left-wing parties, building on the experience of the previous autumn’s presidential election campaign, where the Social Democrats were the first political party to endorse Catherine Connolly’s candidacy. This strategic alignment suggests a broader effort to consolidate progressive forces in Irish politics.
Holly Cairns’s address at the Social Democrats’ national conference serves as a clear signal of the party’s intent to position itself as a vocal advocate for a more assertive and ethically grounded Ireland, both on the international stage and in the digital realm, directly challenging established government policies and proposing tangible legislative reforms.