Rory Hearne, housing campaigner, academic, author has today announced the Social Democrats candidate for the upcoming European Elections.

Hearne will vie for one of four seats in the Midlands-North-West constituency, competing against the likes of former Rose of Tralee winner and Fine Gael politician Maria Walsh as well as Independent Luke 'Ming' Flanagan.

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns said of Hearne's selection that "Rory Hearne has been a prominent voice on the most important issue facing Ireland today".

Continuing the West Cork TD said: "He advocates for those most affected by the housing crisis and is absolutely dedicated to ensuring that Ireland becomes a country where this and future generations can afford to call home".

Rory Hearne is perhaps best known as the author of Gaffs:Why No One Can Get a House, and What We Can Do about It a non fiction book about the state of the housing crisis in Ireland.

He is also a lecturer in social policy at Maynooth University which he credits as giving him an insight into: "how the housing, environmental and cost of living crises have impacted on students and people living in Kildare".

Speaking on his selection, Hearne said:  “Across Ireland, we are experiencing a social and economic catastrophe in the form of the housing crisis. There is an entire generation of people locked out of buying a home; trapped in a cycle of extortionate rents; stuck living in their childhood bedrooms; forced to emigrate; and, even worse, pushed into homelessness".

Speaking on his plans if he's successful, Hearne said: “As an MEP, I want to stand up for generation locked out by bringing the housing crisis to the top of the political agenda in Europe, and by using my role to put pressure on the Irish Government to implement the solutions and bring about a fairer future for us all.”

Endorsing Hearne's candidacy Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns concluded saying: "EU policy decisions affect every aspect of our lives and our communities. What happens in Brussels or Strasbourg can help deliver social and affordable housing, improve workers’ rights and bring down energy costs.

"While there is lot Europe could do, we need strong voices like Rory’s to make it a reality. I have no doubt that, if elected, he will stand up to corporate interests and campaign for the change we need to see in Ireland.”

This year's European elections are expected to take place by June 2024.