As former Chair of the Oireachtas Peace, Neutrality and Disarmament group, I believe Ireland’s best international contribution should be as a voice for peace.
In 2024 I led scrutiny on the EU Act in Support of Ammunition Production which took €500 million from the EU budget and gave it as a subsidy to the arms industry including companies who are known to supply Israel with weapons. I sought to prohibit the direct or indirect investment in the arms industry as part of the new Future Ireland Fund and Climate and Nature Fund. I also sought the inclusion of ethical investment clauses in the new Auto-enrollment pension scheme. I co-sponsored the Occupied Territories and Family Reunification Bills and won rights-based amendments to legislation in data protection, domestic violence and adoption. I will continue to bring a human-rights and peace perspective to public policy.
Reminder to all NUI graduates who have a vote in the NUI Seanad Election to post their ballot today. Completed ballots must reach the NUI in Dublin by 11am Wed 29th January.