The Green Party has learned from harsh experience that good intentions are not sufficient to win elections, particularly when they are likely to be portrayed by opponents as a group of sandal-wearing incompetents. As a result, the party's economic programme has been carefully costed and designed to appeal to a broad swathe of voters. Its offer of fiscal prudence and equity involves a redistribution of future wealth. And certain provisions will generate controversy.
Smaller parties have to make waves at election time in order to remain relevant and retain voter attention. The Green Party has been fortunate in that its core environmental policies have connected with growing public concern over climate change and global warming. But, as the most recent opinion poll showed, such support is volatile and may drift away. The launch of its policy document, "Fairness and Prosperity - A Green Approach to the Economy" has been designed to appeal to those concerned, wavering voters while establishing a platform for negotiations on the formation of a future government.
Political risks can be less threatening to smaller parties. In that regard, Trevor Sargent seized the initiative from Fine Gael and the Labour Party by demanding an explanation from the Taoiseach concerning the payment of money while he was minister for finance, now that the Mahon tribunal has postponed its investigations. It was important for democracy, the Green Party leader insisted, that a statement should be made before, rather than after, the election.
Taking a 4 per cent growth rate as its starting point, the party wants to cut VAT and PRSI while leaving income tax rates unchanged. Within that innovative approach, it advocates the introduction of a carbon tax, an increase in capital gains tax to 25 per cent, reform of commercial rates and a new bank levy. Its declared intention is "to direct tax breaks at those who need them, while ensuring the overall tax take does not increase". Commercial rates would become payable on Government properties, development land, investment properties and second homes.
The party's commitment to protect economic growth involves the retention of corporation tax at its present level. It envisages a doubling in the level of State pensions. And a tapered system for private pensions will favour the lower paid while removing benefits from high earners. Sustained investment in public services and transport systems, along with a shift to alternative energy sources and fuel security, are integral parts of its programme. In recent years, the Green Party has doubled its Dáil representation to six seats and concentrated on becoming a party of government. Its economic approach, which is both innovative and challenging, is designed to give substance and shape to that ambition. Fighting the election as an independent party, its preferred partners in government would be Fine Gael and the Labour Party. The electorate will ultimately decide the outcome.