In 2007, the long held dreams of the Green Party to enter government became reality as they became a key part of Bertie Ahern's Coalition. However, the dream soon turned into a nightmare as economic collapse and political chaos descended on the island, resulting in a banking crisis, an IMF Bailout and an electoral wipe-out for the party and its members. While the party's naivety and inexperience made it ill prepared for these events, its contribution raised questions and made a difference in several important areas.