Ivana Calls for a modern constitution to reflect a modern Ireland - The Labour Party
Ivana said, “As we approach its 90th birthday, we can see that the Constitution has atrophied. It is no longer fit for purpose. It does not even define the state as a Republic. Nor do its provisions reflect the diverse, pluralist society in which we live today.
“Instead, a theocratic ethos is evident in the text, particularly in the Preamble and in provisions requiring that a religious Oath be taken by a newly-elected President, and by newly appointed members of the judiciary and of the Council of State.
“The same ethos is also evident in the Fundamental Rights Articles 40-44, which reflect religious doctrinal teaching, and recognise only a selective set of liberal rights. Amongst other economic rights that should be recognised, our Constitution should provide for a right to housing and to public ownership of utilities.
Ivana was speaking during a robust and lively panel discussion on Bunreacht na hÉireann, which included Attorney General Rossa Fanning, SC, and Head of the School of Law at Trinity College, Prof. David Kenny. Editor of the Irish Times, Ruadhán Mac Cormaic, hosted the panel discussion.
“Before the Constitution turns 90 in 2027, and in the context of a prospective Unity Referendum process, we need to develop new constitutional text that truly reflects 21st Century Ireland. We need to ensure that our modern Constitution is framed in secularised language that is appropriate for our Republic.
“We should begin preparations for this now, by establishing a new Joint Committee on Constitutional Change to develop a new and updated text.”
During questions from audience members Ivana spoke about the moral and political imperative for the Occupied Territories Bill (OTB) to be passed and to include goods and services. She also criticised the Government for ‘hiding behind the Attorney General’s advice’ on the OTB and repeated her demand that the advice is published. Ivana also referenced her work with colleagues across Europe in the Party of European Socialists, encouraging them to adopt an equivalent measure to show European solidarity against the genocide in Gaza.