Greetings,
As the week winds down, the Green Party’s ‘yearly assembly’ is on the horizon. Of late, the junior Coalition counterpart has taken somewhat of a backseat while the major parties took centre stage: firstly, with the abrupt departure of Leo Varadkar ensuing the ascension of Simon Harris, and then the audacious move to claim fiscal superiority by Fianna Fáil at its ardfheis. This weekend, however, provides an opportunity for the Greens to take the reins – but will they step up?
The party’s TDs and members, in general, have a profound sense of pride in their achievements within the Government, but for the most part, voters remain indifferent. Poll data suggest a loss for them in the upcoming elections (though not a total defeat), thereby reducing the chance of a climate-centric party succeeding in forming the next government. The Greens’ genuine concern for the environment remains unparalleled, especially given the broader political landscape’s slow progress in recent years. If the thought of a weakened green politics after half a decade in Government doesn’t concern them, what will? If it does, there’s been little evidence to suggest any worry as they carry on unperturbed – their brand still boasts a joyful, somewhat mossy and quaint charm.
The Greens may possess unwavering belief that the broader electorate will eventually recognise and reward their role in government when the next elections come around. However, proactive measures are required rather than hoping for it as a natural evolution.
In other news, there are possible immigration reforms on cards that might allow airlines to evade fines by implementing more thorough passenger document checks at gates. Though the Irish state remains uncertain about the costs incurred, Taoiseach predicts a ‘disproportionate benefit’ from the EU migration pact.
Furthermore, under-lined chronic issues in Green policies such as the escalating migration accommodation crisis show few signs of receding, as noted this morning by Jennifer Bray.
Top picks for reading include Miriam Lord’s commentary on Simon Harris and Mary Lou McDonald’s coldly civil interactions, Newton Emerson’s rationale on why Harris got it spot-on about Belfast, Derry, Berlin and Paris, and Jack Power’s insight into the dealings of EU summits.
Tax issues and Liz Truss’ book have stirred up heated conversations in the political hub of Westminster. RTÉ recently premiered a sketch show, which comes under the sharp criticism of Patrick Freyne for its appalling quality. The week’s final parliamentary session begins with Catherine Martin and Peter Burke fielding verbal inquiries in the Dáil at 9 am and 10.30 am respectively.
Leaders’ Questions follows at noon, and after this, Policy or Legislative Questions take centre stage until lunchtime. After lunch, the focus shifts to current matters and private member discussions based on the Citizens’ Assembly’s report on biodiversity loss. The Dáil concludes for the week just after 6 pm.
The committees receive representatives from the Department of Children and Integration at 9.30 am. They are set to delve deeper into issues concerning asylum seeker accommodation and the resourcing and manpower for Tusla. Be sure to check Jennifer Bray’s front page article for detailed insights on the topics at hand.
Simultaneously, the Housing Committee rigorously ploughs forward with the planning Bill. Issues affecting the Traveller community such as accommodation, education, employment, health, and justice are examined by the joint committee at 11 am.
Details of the full schedule can be accessed here. There is no sitting of the Seanad scheduled for today.