I am advocating for a sustainable economy, one which delivers decent work, supports fair taxation and recognises the cost and contribution of care.
I am pressing for long-term environmental planning including integrated public transport, a transition towards carbon neutrality and respect for our natural resources as a public good.
Senator Higgins spoke at the launch of the latest TASC report examining the social implications of precarious work. The report examines the drivers behind the recent rise in precarious work and its impact on the lives of individuals and society. In particular the report examines the areas of health, housing, employment and family formation and reveals the ways in which precarious work leads to precarious lives.
Senator Higgins repeated her call for the restoration of tax relief for trade union subscriptions in a recent edition of Liberty newspaper.
On Wednesday the Seanad hosted a special debate on Galway's role as European Capital of Culture in 2020.
Speaking in the debate, Independent Senator Alice-Mary Higgins praised the wide participation of so many in making the bid successful and emphasised the importance of maintaining that inclusive participation as plans progress.
On Wednesday 15th November 2017, Senator Alice-Mary Higgins launched NUI Galway's Sustainability Strategy.
The Civil Engagement Group in the Seanad is calling on the Government to deliver equality, transparency and sustainable development in Budget 2018. The group have highlighted five principles which they say should underpin the budgetary decision-making.
1. Budget 2018 must deliver joined-up thinking for sustainable development.
2. Budget 2018 must prioritise investment in public services and social infrastructure
3. Budget 2018 must address social, economic and gender inequality
4. Budget 2018 must be clear and transparent around taxation
5. Budget 2018 must meet international standards and commitments.
13th April 2017
Over months of coordinated pressure and opposition in the Seanad led by Senator Alice-Mary Higgins, the Government had been forced to dilute highly controversial proposals in Heritage Bill 2016. However, a last minute amendment from Minister Humphries at the final stage of the bill in the Seanad threatens to undo much of the progress won.
In April I discussed the Heritage Bill on Radio Kerry and explained the many reasons why I strongly oppose extending the months of gorse and upland burning into March and cutting into August - dangerous provisions which will have devastating consequences for our birds, wildlife and pollinators.
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.
Last week saw a strong debate in the Seanad on the Heritage Bill 2016, which amongst a number of other controversial provisions, proposes to expand the hedge-cutting and burning period beyond the limits set out in the current wildlife legislation.