The Progressive Democrats were formed in 1985. At the last General Election in 1997 the Progressive Democrats won four seats.

The leader of the Progressive Democrats is Mary Harney, the first woman leader of a political party in the history of the State. Mary Harney was elected leader in October, 1993. She succeeded the founder of the Party, Desmond O'Malley.

The Progressive Democrats were established with the aim of providing Ireland with a modern, forward looking liberal party in the European mould.

The party favours positive Government action to create an enterprise society and a review of the role of the State in the economic and social life of the country.

The party supports the movement towards greater political and economic integration amongst the Member States of the European Union.

The party was a member of the Coalition Government of 1989 to 1991 and is a coalition partner in the current government.

Its headquarters are at 25 South Frederick Street, Dublin 2.