The Progressive Democrats are considering a change of name as part of a radical revamp which could also see Attorney General Michael McDowell returning in a key role as party president. The proposals, which are reported in this morning's Sunday Tribune, have won favour with a number of senior party members. It is said that many believe the party's title carries a lot of negative baggage.
Des O'Malley's daughter Fiona, a candidate for Dun Laoghaire, has in the past expressed support for the inclusion of the term "Liberal" in the party name.
There is also very strong support within the party for the return of Michael McDowell, the Attorney-General, to a high-profile role in the PDs. The Tribune claims that discussions have taken place about the prospect of making Mr McDowell the party president and the eventual heir to party leader Mary Harney.
Party Chairman, John Minihan said that "We would welcome and hope that a situation will arise when Michael will rejoin the party and play an active role. I'm of the opinion that Michael has a role to play, not only in Dublin Southeast, but nationally within the party organisation."
