Ms Valerie Duffy:

We were all considered as future generations at some stage and maybe we were not named as such. We have now moved from that position to being here today, having some more insight, influence and power and with our collective work, experience of the world, skills and critical view of the future. We have to ask ourselves whether we can do better. Is this the best we can do? We suggest this Bill lays the foundation for important and influential work that can shape society and the planet for the better, for current and future generations. Involving young people in its development as well as marginalised groups and other key groups will be hugely important to ensure intergenerational dialogue around the set-up.

We welcome this Bill and hope it makes its way through all of the Stages that will lead to the commission being set up and the establishment of an office of the ombudsman for future generations as well as a Oireachtas joint committee on future generations. For us, this is a timely Bill. The world is increasingly adopting a future focus at UN and European levels and by increasing the numbers of national governments as well. Ireland can play a leading role in this area and this Bill is taking us there. I hope we will be judged to be good ancestors by future generations.