Peace and Human Rights

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.

Related Stories

Irish Neutrality League Announce Rally for Peace

Cross-party Oireachtas members of the INL today announced details of a major Dublin event to promote peace and neutrality. The ‘Public Rally for Peace: Save the Triple Lock - Save Neutrality' is taking place at 2pm in The Gresham Hotel on May 10th and will include speakers from across the opposition parties and independent Parliamentarians. There will be music and performances from Lisa O’Neil and other artists. This event is part of a campaign of activities nationwide in opposition to government plans to get rid of the triple lock and undermine Ireland's proud tradition of neutrality.

Senator Alice-Mary Higgins honoured to be re-elected to Seanad Éireann

This week I was honoured to sign the Roll of Members for the 27th Seanad. I will continue to be a strong and progressive voice for equality, environment, public services and human rights in the challenging times ahead. Heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported my re-election campaign - the nominators, assentors, volunteers, campaigners and everyone who entrusted me with their vote to represent them in the next Seanad.

Newsletter October 2024: Gaza, Seanad Reform, Planning and Development, Climate Action, Education and Research, Ethical Economics, Empowering Citizens Online

Dear Friends,

In the months since my last newsletter, I have, like many of you, been heartbroken and outraged by the devastating loss of life in Gaza. I have been taking every action I can, nationally and internationally to press for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, respect for human rights, international law, and an end to the global escalation of conflict.