***Check against delivery*** Comrades, it is a great privilege to be here today with SIPTU to mark the passing of Jim Larkin and indeed to commemorate all that he and those of his time did to create the labour movement that we have today. It is 150 years since the birth of Jim Larkin and…

Labour’s Health Spokesperson Duncan Smith TD today condemned Government’s failure to prioritise the well-being of older people, highlighting the Government focus on the privatisation of long-term residential care and home care. Deputy Smith said “The government agenda for divestment over investment in long-term care is a blatant disregard for our older citizens. Older people deserve…

Labour’s Senator Annie Hoey was today reacting to the latest homeless figures. Senator Hoey said: “The latest housing figures for December 2023 lay bare the harsh impact of the ongoing housing crisis. Emergency accommodation in 13,318 individuals, with an alarming 3,962 being children. The distressing 15% increase in homeless children throughout 2023 demands immediate attention….

The report, published today recommends the introduction of policies to provide time off work following pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, among other measures. In 2021, the Labour Party introduced the Organisation of Working Time (Reproductive Health Related Leave) Bill 2021 in the Seanad. If passed, it would provide up to 20 days’ paid leave for…

Labour’s Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Brendan Howlin TD was today reacting to the first International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on the Genocide case brought by South Africa against Israel. Deputy Howlin said: “Today’s ICJ ruling is a significant step towards justice for the people of Gaza. The Court’s affirmation of jurisdiction underscores the gravity of…

Responding to the Housing for All progress report published yesterday, Labour leader and housing spokesperson Ivana Bacik said we are simply not building enough homes. Deputy Bacik said: “The Housing for All progress report fails to capture the reality of the issues in housing. Yes, Government are meeting some targets but all expert advice indicates…

Speaking following debate on her bill, the Children and Family Relationships (Amendment) Bill 2023, Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD has called on the Government to do right by the LGBTQ+ families whose equal rights were endorsed by the people of Ireland in the 2015 Marriage Equality Referendum. Deputy Bacik said, “Rather than engaging with us…

Does Uisce Éireann have adequate resources? Labour’s Climate Spokesperson Senator Rebecca Moynihan was today reacting to news that the European Court of Justice has declared that Ireland failed to meet obligations under an EU directive concerning safe drinking water. Senator Moynihan said: “The court’s ruling underscores the severe lapse in ensuring the well-being of Irish…