Welcome Paul O’Kane! New Director of Christians on the Left

Christians on the Left is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul O’Kane as its new Director. 

Paul brings a wealth of experience in politics, public service and campaigning. As a former Member of the Scottish Parliament, he has been a passionate advocate for social justice, equality and tackling poverty, alongside a longstanding commitment to the values that underpin the Christian socialist tradition.

Welcoming the appointment, Anna Dixon MP, Chair of Christians on the Left said:

"I am really excited to have Paul joining us as the new Director at Christians on the Left. He brings with him a wealth of experience in local and national government, together with a deep Christian faith that will guide his leadership.

As we work together to deliver our strategy of tackling child poverty, addressing climate and debt justice and bringing more compassion into politics, I am confident Paul has the passion and drive to lead us into this next chapter to ensure Christians on the Left thrives and engages our membership."

The appointment was unanimously endorsed, Rev Andy Fitchet, Vice Chair of Christians on the Left said:

“I am really excited to have Paul joining us at Christians on the Left as our new Director. His strong faith together with extensive experience in local and national politics make him well placed to guide us. As we work together to deliver our strategy of alleviating child poverty, tackling climate injustice and bringing more compassion into politics, I know Paul is the right person to lead us in this next chapter.”

Speaking about his appointment, Paul O’Kane said:

"I am delighted and honoured to be taking on the role of Director of Christians on the Left at a pivotal time in the life of the movement, the Labour Party and our country. As we face significant global and national challenges - conflict, child poverty, climate change and fractures in politics and public life - it is more important than ever that we propose the values of the Gospel and support the whole Labour movement to meet the moment. As forces around the world seek to use faith as a vehicle for division and discord we must be the salt of the earth and the light of the world - bringing people together for good. I look forward to building on the good work of Hannah, engaging in all spheres of our movement from the Prime Minister and Cabinet to local parties, trades unions and more widely - building relationships, making change and making the case for our common Christian and socialist values."

Paul O’Kane, new Director of Christians on the Left

Paul will take up the role today, succeeding Hannah Rich, who has led the organisation with dedication and commitment. Christians on the Left would like to thank Hannah for her service and wish her every success in the future.

Hannah Rich, outgoing director, said:

“It has been a joy and an honour to lead Christians on the Left for the past four years, as our membership has grown to represent one in nine of the current Labour PLP, and to see the influence we have as an organisation. I continue to love everything that Christians on the Left embodies, and I am delighted to be handing over to Paul, who will be a fantastic director for the next season of this movement.”

We look forward to welcoming Paul and beginning this exciting new chapter for Christians on the Left.

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