Local elections: Labour delegates were in campaign mode as they gathered for their national conference, less than eight weeks ahead of the local and European elections.
While there was no opportunity to speak from the floor, the party's general secretary, Mr Mike Allen, urged delegates to attend a series of workshops instead of spending the afternoon in the bar.
In a sign that the party will be leaving nothing to chance come June 11th, the workshops offered briefings on political essentials such as election spending rules and canvassing skills.
According to a hand-out seen by The Irish Times, candidates and their supporters were told to explain "but never argue" on the doorsteps. "Better to walk away," said the note. "Always close the gate. Take accurate notes. Follow up afterwards."
Candidates were told to highlight their own achievements and to challenge the Government's record. They were also told to highlight the voting records of Fianna Fáil, the PDs and Fine Gael on their local councils.
The more seasoned activists were in no need of such tuition and there were plenty of references from the podium of Punchestown and the tax-free status of the horse-breeding business. Labour has high hopes for June, but the party is not counting on votes from the equestrian world.
While delegates were happy to attack the Government and the other Opposition parties, there were divergent views on the possibility of the party joining a coalition with Fianna Fáil. Party leader, Mr Pat Rabbitte, has ruled this out, but he may have no other choice if Fine Gael fails to stage a major recovery.
Mr Mark Khan, who is mayor of Lismore, Co Waterford, saw Labour becoming the "lynch-pin" in a Coalition with Fine Gael.
"There would be huge problems in Labour if it went into Coalition with Fianna Fáil," he said. "Fianna Fáil have abandoned any pretence of social democracy."
