Irish Women's Political Lunch: Green vs Conservative Views on Polanski & Protests
Two Irish women with opposing political views recently sat down for lunch in London to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the capital and the country. Ruth, a 30-year-old Green Party member from Cork, and Moira, a 76-year-old Conservative voter from County Clare, found common ground in their heritage while exploring their differences on topics ranging from political leadership to the cost of policing demonstrations.
The Dining Experience
The conversation took place at Le Petit Citron, a French bistro in London W6, where both women enjoyed a swanky meal. Moira opted for coq au vin followed by creme brulee, accompanied by a lavender mocktail, while Ruth chose a delicious ratatouille. Ruth abstained from alcohol, noting that they would be discussing significant topics and it was lunchtime.
Both women originally planned to spend just six months in London but have stayed much longer. Ruth has been in the city for a year and a half with no plans to leave, while Moira made that transition years ago.
The Big Beef: Zack Polanski and Political Leadership
The discussion quickly turned to Zack Polanski, the Green Party leader. Moira, who has voted Green in the past due to her environmental concerns, expressed mixed feelings. She described Polanski as articulate and charismatic, drawing a comparison to Boris Johnson, but voiced concerns about depth and integrity, noting that she considered Johnson a mistake as prime minister.
Moira also mentioned being slightly turned off by Polanski's past involvement in hypnotising a woman into thinking she had augmented her breasts. However, she showed empathy for housing issues, remarking on the radical problem when a well-educated, hard-working 30-year-old like Ruth cannot see a path to property ownership in London.
Ruth defended Polanski, acknowledging he might be an opportunist but arguing that all politicians seek opportunities to advance their policies. She emphasised that the Greens should not be pigeonholed into only climate politics, as they address social issues important to the left. Ruth praised Polanski as humble, genuine, and willing to engage with people, noting his handling of criticism over economic policies like wealth taxes.
Sharing Plate: Irish Temperament and Open-Mindedness
Both women reflected on their Irish backgrounds, with Moira noting that the Irish tend not to fall out over opposing opinions, partly due to the small size of the country where people often know each other. Ruth expected more bickering but found a warmth in their exchange, describing Moira as open-minded and interested in others' views, though she admitted not persuading her to return to the Greens.
For Afters: The Cost of Policing Protests
A key point of contention arose over protest policing. Moira agreed on the right to free speech and protest but questioned whether too much money is spent on policing demonstrations. She proposed that activists contribute to costs, such as for closing streets and damaging business, suggesting a nominal fee like ten pounds per head.
Ruth countered that this would create a privileged system where only those who can afford it can protest. She argued there are already too many police at events like Palestine solidarity marches and questioned how such a payment system could be enforced.
Takeaways: Fondness Despite Differences
Despite their political divides, both women left the lunch with positive feelings. Moira had expected someone dogmatic but found Ruth lovely, charming, positive, and powerful, expressing admiration for her youth. Ruth, in turn, came away with fondness for Moira, noting she would be happy to see her on the street, though they did not swap contact details.
This encounter highlights how civil discourse can bridge political gaps, even in a city as diverse and divided as London. The women's shared Irish heritage provided a foundation for respectful dialogue, offering insights into contemporary issues from housing to protest rights.
