Labour climate spokesperson Ivana Bacik has welcomed the publication of carbon budgets but said the devil will be in the detail. Ahead of COP meeting this week, Deputy Bacik said a step change is required and government must work hard to provide clarity for people on the additional measures announced. Deputy Bacik said: “Given the…

Labour’s climate spokesperson Ivana Bacik said today that the EPA report showing Ireland’s slowing of emission reductions provides further proof that the government is kicking the can on climate action. Questioning Minister Ryan in the Dáil yesterday, Deputy Bacik called on the Minster to explain the lack of urgency, and in particular to say why…

Speaking on the day that nightlife finally re-opens on a mass scale, Labour’s Arts and Culture spokesperson Senator Marie Sherlock wished all revellers, owners and workers in night clubs, bars and restaurants well. However, she encouraged revellers to remain respectful towards workers as places reopen without precise guidelines. Senator Sherlock said: “Premises will be opening…

Labour arts and culture spokesperson Marie Sherlock said that research published today confirms concerns about widespread harassment and bullying in the Arts sector. Commenting on the Speak Up report commissioned by the Irish Theatre Institute as part of the its Dignity in the Workplace Initiative, Senator Sherlock said the scale of harmful behaviour reported by…

Welcoming the establishment of an independent Gambling Regulatory Authority, Labour Senator Mark Wall said the Authority must be empowered to protect players and anyone suffering from a gambling problem. Calling on the government to fast-track the appointment of a regulator before 2023, Senator Wall said today marks a step in the right direction. Senator Wall…

Labour agriculture spokesperson Seán Sherlock has said the drop in LEADER funding announced today is a worrying signal to all in rural Ireland. Questioning the government’s commitment to sustainable development of rural Ireland, Deputy Sherlock said government must think beyond the farm gate when it comes to supporting agricultural communities. Deputy Sherlock said: “As part…

Commenting on the news that most pupils at CBS primary school in Wexford stayed out of school today, Deputy Ó Ríordáin said the Department needs to take a common sense approach and listen to the schools affected by outbreaks. Deputy Ó Ríordáin said: “The Department of Education has effectively prevented CBS Wexford from providing online…

Responding to the Minister of Justice’s failure to answer questions about decriminalising drug user, Labour TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said we need to change the culture around drug use in Ireland. Ó Ríordáin, whose campaigning work for a health-based approach to the drugs problem has been recognised in Ireland and abroad, said Ireland needs to…