A smart economy is a green economy. There is a huge opportunity for Ireland and TCD to develop a lucrative green technology sector.
For the last five years there has been no Green voice in the Oireachtas. The election of two T.D.s in the General Election was a huge step forward. In addition to the urgency of climate change, I will set the agenda for economic development that is sustainable and profitable in the Seanad.
I will campaign to:
- Lobby to establish a TCD Institute of Green Technologies
- Efficient economic development of forestry, fisheries & organic industries
- Establish Ireland as the home of ‘Green’ cloud computer
Broadly speaking, the Seanad was meant as a forum for educated counsel and as a check on the power of the Dáil. The house is divided into five Panels: the Administrative Panel, the Agricultural Panel, the Cultural and Educational Panel, the Industrial and Commercial Panel and the Labour Panel. Each of these consists, in theory, of individuals possessing special knowledge and experience. While the current practice is far removed from such theory, reform is possible. There are three clear ways we can achieve this.