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The Irish Labour Party is a political organization in Ireland that positions itself on the center-left of the political spectrum. Founded in 1912 by James Connolly, James Larkin, and William O'Brien as the political wing of the Irish Trade Union Congress,…   it is the oldest extant political party in Ireland. The Labour Party has traditionally been associated with advocating for the rights and interests of workers, promoting social justice, and advancing policies aimed at reducing inequality within Irish society.<br /><br />The core values of the Labour Party are rooted in social democracy and democratic socialism. This ideological foundation emphasizes the importance of a fair and equitable society, where the wealth and resources are distributed in a manner that ensures everyone has access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, and housing. The party advocates for a mixed economy where both the state and the private sector play significant roles in the economy, arguing that the state should intervene in the economy to rectify social injustices and market failures.<br /><br />Labour's policies often focus on improving workers' rights, enhancing public services, and protecting the environment. The party supports progressive taxation as a means to fund public services and social welfare programs, aiming to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor. In recent years, the Labour Party has also placed a strong emphasis on issues such as climate change, advocating for policies that promote sustainability and environmental protection.<br /><br />Throughout its history, the Labour Party has been a key player in Irish politics, participating in various coalition governments. While it has never been the largest party in the Dáil Éireann (the principal chamber of the Oireachtas, the Irish Parliament), its influence has been significant in shaping Irish social policy. The party's commitment to social justice, equality, and workers' rights continues to define its identity and political agenda in contemporary Ireland.Lue lisää