Leinster House was abuzz with beekeepers from across Ireland voicing strong opposition while the Heritage Bill was being debated in the Seanad on Thursday March 2nd. Beekeepers dressed in their full regalia were joined by tiny bees, birds from Birdwatch Ireland and supporters of the Irish Wildlife Trust, An Taisce and the Hedgelaying Association.
This marks the third time that the Heritage Bill has been debated at committee stage in the Seanad, meeting strong opposition on each occasion. The debate will resume in a few weeks and Senator Higgins will continue to strongly oppose this flawed Bill, particularly Section 8 which would extend burning and cutting of uplands and hedgerows right into March and August - nesting season for many birds and a crucial time for bees to gather the pollen they need to make it throughout winter.
Importantly, it is clear also that this Bill is nothing to do with road safety, as has been claimed by the Minister. Section 70 of the Road Traffic Act already permits hedge-cutting at any time of the year where road safety is a concern.
On Monday in the Seanad, Senator Higgins urged the Government to extend the terms of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes to allow for an investigation into the destruction of witness testimony. Senator Higgins argued that people who gave testimony to the Commission have a right to have a copy of their own testimony and to have their stories heard.
On Thursday 19 November, World Philosophy Day, Senator Alice-Mary Higgins was delighted to launch the 2021 Young Philosopher Awards and to congratulate Lily McCann of Temple Carrig, Greystones, who was the overall winner of the Young Philosopher Award 2020 for her project ‘What Do We Owe To Each Other?’
