Slugger O’Toole – New Horizons in the Republic

I am delighted to take up the role of Southern Editor here at Slugger O’Toole.  It is the perfect time for ‘Slugger’ to expand.  Over the next year we want to bring that unique approach to the Irish political scene.  In the past I was deeply involved in grass root politics.  Ireland has a great tradition of this across all parties and none.  There are many people who possess a deep understanding of the political game and how it works.

All too often commentary can centre on the ‘bubble’ of Leinster House.  Many seem to think that political parties and TD’s are all that politics is about.  It is of course much deeper than that.  A leader or a TD is always concerned with their base and watching what is happening on the ground.  If they lose sight of that they will lose their seat shortly after.  To understand, predict and truly grasp Irish politics you must get well beyond Leinster House.  You must spend time among the people that make, shape and influence the TD’s.

I want to promote that kind of insight.  If you have a strong view on Irish politics then we want to hear from you.  Whether you are involved with a party or just an interested observer we want to know your opinions.  The great advantage of the Internet is that it allows new voices.  It can facilitate debate and go beyond the limitations of just reporting headline news.  Whatever your opinion the country can only benefit from debating it.  You can contact me, [email protected], with your opinions, your insights, your gossip and your news whether local or national and we will bring it to a wider audience.

Slugger now reaches over 90,000 readers per month.  This is an impressive reach and we will expand that further.  We will be running events, hosting debate and getting out and about at every opportunity.  As the name might suggest, Slugger is able to throw and take the punches.  That is at the core of stepping into the arena.  Some agree with opinions, some disagree.  Whatever your view, contact us.  If you support something then tell us, if an article upsets you then write your reply.

I want Slugger to combine the ability to bring news and political insight with the determination to foster and facilitate debate.  Through events, media collaborations and our work here at the website we can make a difference.  Irish media is changing, Irish society is changing and Irish politics is changing.  Be part of that.  Don’t stay quiet, step up.

 

Johnny Fallon