As the general election approaches, party strategists are diligently refining their party manifestos. Each party aims to unveil a perfect combination of policies that can address voters’ everyday issues and strike the right balance between aspiration and feasibility. These commitments will form the arena where the election battles will likely begin but there’s a strong chance some perennial and knotty issues will be largely sidestepped by many parties.
One predominant issue is global warming. The annual report of the Climate Change Advisory Council notes that while some progress has been made to reduce carbon emissions, the current pace is insufficient to meet the reduction objectives scheduled for 2030.
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Is this relevant? It definitely is, as whichever coalition of parties forms the subsequent Government will need to consider it a current fiscal concern along with future climate problems. According to the calculations of the climate council, Ireland may face penalties exceeding €8 billion, should the current trajectory continue.
To provide context for that amount, the 2025 budget package declared earlier this month inclusive of spending hikes and tax reductions was worth €8.3 billion.
It is worthy to imagine a future – not too distant – where comparable amouts are being forfeited in penalties, rather than being channeled towards tax reductions and cost of living supports. In sum, this is the tangible price of apathy.
Enduring such fiscal calamity would be detrimental for the succeeding government, which would otherwise utilise those funds towards ameliorating public services, construction of infrastructure, or tax cuts.
So, why are the parties disinclined to focus on climate in the elections? Each party can reason this out individually but, thus far, climate initiatives that mandate substantial, quick alterations in consumer behaviour – particularly in relation to transport- or business, have floundered. Inducing transformations in the habits of individuals and businesses necessitates a mix of raising awareness, enticements, and occasionally presenting viable options.
The goal of having a million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030 seems unattainable. This can be in part attributed to the lack of trust drivers have in an electric future, due to the slow progress of the government in establishing a vast national charging network which would mitigate range anxieties.
Apart from climate change, Leahy draws attention to the topic of immigration. Despite individuals feeling apprehensive about debating it, ignoring it cannot be regarded as a policy measure. As Leahy points out, migration issues have stirred politics across Europe, giving impetus to far-right parties like the Alternative for Germany (AfD) in Germany and Austria’s Freedom party. The hardening stand of EU leaders on migration is driven by their electorate.
In the context of Ireland, the crux of the immigration debate revolves around efforts to provide for individuals seeking asylum or international protection. Leahy emphasises the necessity for an immigration and asylum policy that is compassionate, credible, enjoys public endorsement, and helps sustain Ireland’s global openness.
Furthermore, Leahy brings up the matter of Ireland’s economic model, which seems to be rarely focused upon during electoral debates. The stellar performance of the Irish economy over the past decade is noteworthy, yet susceptible to instability. It cannot be assumed that corporate tax revenue will consistently remain high.
This poses another issue about the aptitude of the state in supplying resources and infrastructure needed for economic advancement. Leahy cites the recurring irritation of inefficient project delivery and breaches of budget limits.
Multinational companies are clamouring for substantial investment in infrastructure, particularly in the energy and water sectors. Business operation costs are escalating and it is crucial for the succeeding administration to address this issue.
As Leahy perceives: “Maintaining the level of prosperity that enables governments to redistribute wealth for societal advancement is of utmost importance. This ought to be the chief consideration in this and every subsequent election.”
In the midst of the US elections, Dale Seaquist, a 92-year-old man, expresses his support for Donald Trump. Despite his age, he maintains a high level of energy, possibly as a result of the invigorating environment of Door County filled with crisp, cinnamon-scented air. His secret? An apple a day to fend off illness and onions to keep people at bay, explains Keith Duggan.
Turning to the subject of rugby, Connacht is no longer seen as the underdog, and is set to revamp themselves both on and off the field. They’ve become one of the most heartening stories of Irish rugby, says Gerry Thornley.
35-year-old, Alan Jose de Lima, is gripped with fear of never racing again, having suffered a brutal physical assault while on his job as a food delivery person in Dublin. Despite his love for marathons, multiple metal plates the result of the attack, may prevent him from ever running again.
According to Cliff Taylor’s Smart Money column, a healthy dose of scepticism should accompany the economic promises handed out by political parties during the electoral campaigns.
Finally, an anonymous individual assisting their elderly mother and mentally disabled brother full-time queries about state support. The enquirer is not earning and surviving on the mother’s income, and seeks aid to manage the challenging situation.
Over the course of this weekend, Dublin is buzzing with excitement as multitude participate in the city’s marathon, both as contestants and supporters. Commenting on the significance of a local win, Sonia O’Sullivan opines that it would add much more value to the occasion than a mere course-breaking record.
Dominic Coyle, in the latest ‘On the Money’ newsletter, discusses the aspects to be weighed when purchasing an automobile. He presents a contrast between the advantages of new and pre-owned vehicles.