Brendan Howlin warns unresolved problems could fuel political anger in Ireland

Former Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin has warned that unresolved problems including housing, energy costs and affordability could leave Ireland vulnerable to growing political anger.

The former Wexford TD was speaking during a wide-ranging interview on South East Radio’s Morning Mix, covering Gaza, the rise of the far right in Europe and the prospect of a united Ireland.

On Gaza, Mr Howlin said he believes the ceasefire has failed to deliver what was promised, pointing to continuing attacks and restricted humanitarian aid. He called for Ireland to continue pushing for stronger action at European level and warned that prolonged suffering risks becoming normalised internationally.

Turning to Germany, Mr Howlin expressed serious concern at the growth of the Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, following his recent visit to Düsseldorf. He said immigration, political fragmentation and growing public anger were among the factors contributing to support for parties outside the traditional political mainstream.

He said Ireland should remain vigilant, arguing that genuine frustrations over housing and the cost of living could be exploited by groups offering anger rather than solutions.

Mr Howlin said governments need to address those underlying problems, particularly the difficulty facing young people trying to afford a home.

“We do need to provide solutions to real problems that people have,” he told South East Radio.

On a possible united Ireland, the former Labour leader said preparations should begin now for what constitutional change could mean in practice.

He warned against repeating the experience of Brexit, arguing that major constitutional decisions should be preceded by detailed planning for their political, economic and practical consequences.

Mr Howlin also said Ireland should continue defending what he described as the core European values of democracy, human rights, tolerance and non-discrimination.

The full interview with Brendan Howlin is available through South East Radio’s Morning Mix podcast