The Green Party opens its national conference today as it enjoys its highest rating in the polls and the chance of getting into Government.
Hundreds of delegates will meet on the shores of Galway Bay to debate policy stances on climate change, transport, planning, health and children's issues.
Green party leader Trevor Sargent
Green Party leader Trevor Sargent said: "Ireland needs a Green government to tackle climate change, energy prices, fuel security and proper planning and housing."
He added: "This is the most important gathering that the Green Party has ever had. "With just weeks to the election we are telling our members, candidates and the public that we are ready for government."
Guest speakers at the three-day event in Salthill include Ibec director of policy Danny McCoy, Kingspan Century Homes chief Gerry McCaughey and former Green government minister in Germany, Renate Kunast.
Personal finance guru Eddie Hobbs will speak on the impact of global oil prices on the pockets and purses of consumers.
An Inconvenient Truth,the controversial film on global warming fronted by former US vice president Al Gore, will be screened this afternoon.
Dublin North TD Sargent will deliver his televised leader's address at the Galway Bay Hotel tomorrow evening.