Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

This motion is about the common interest of the Irish people, their families and communities. Once known as the land of saints and scholars, Ireland today is better known as the land of scandals and tribunals. Politics, banking, the church, business, medicine, law and the gardaí have suffered from an erosion in public confidence in the wake of an astonishing list of scandals. Moreover, Ireland has undergone rapid social, economic and political change over the last decade that has had a profound impact on its value system. For example, the declining authority and influence of the Catholic Church in recent years has forced many to seek other sources of ethical and moral guidance. However, this creates dilemmas of its own. Difficult decisions about the distribution of resources raise awkward questions for society. How is the tension between the rights of individuals and the overall good of society to be resolved? We will not look for guidance from the political elite, the Christian church, the medical and legal professions or from business leaders. All have had their credibility seriously tainted by damaging scandals. Politicians have damaged the integrity of politics. We must face up to this reality and win back politics for the vast majority of the people.

Moreover, the housing situation is a scandal, as we are unable to provide homes for young couples and people on social and affordable housing waiting lists. This is unacceptable. I also challenge those parties which have failed to discipline their members for their collective amnesia with regard to money received from developers and their agents, at a time of widespread rezoning by local authorities. I am amazed at the brass neck of some politicians in this House, Ministers and leaders of Opposition parties included, who state they cannot remember, or found nothing strange or amazing about people coming with envelopes in the middle of the night.

This motion is about honest politics and a fair and just society. It is concerned with cleaning up politics and with decent and quality planning. Finally, it is about respecting our citizens and ensuring a quality of life and future for our children. I urge all Members to support the motion tabled by the Green Party.

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