Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support the points made regarding the Inagh river. What has happened is a tragedy and also a crime. It is a terrible thing when we lose nature in that way. The time we have to regain and protect it is running out. As well as enforcement of the laws and EU directives on protecting our waterways and habitats, it is important that we ensure all the bodies and instruments of the State are doing their part on climate action and biodiversity.

To that end, I propose an amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 18 be taken before No. 1. I propose to introduce the Climate Action and Biodiversity (Mandates of Certain Organisations) Bill 2023 today. There have been calls for various mandates from many organisations, including the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, CRU, and others. The Bill I am bringing forward focuses specifically on Bord na Móna and Coillte. It looks to address the fact that in their mandates and construction, they were, in effect, conceived solely as commercial and business organisations, when, in fact, they have responsibility for a huge amount of the lands, waters and soils of our State. The Bill seeks to ensure those bodies are given a mandate and empowered to act for the future of the country, the best public interest of the State and the best interests of our environment. We are due to introduce the Bill next week but I am proposing that First Stage be taken today.

I highlight the ongoing case in respect of homeless asylum seekers in Ireland. The State has been told it must house those who arrive here from situations such as those we discussed last week. There is a terrible war going on in Sudan and there is conflict right around the world. People are fleeing terrible situations and are now living here in tents in the rain, with no signal as yet from the State that they will be housed. I understand the issue is being looked at by the Government. I would like an update on the action to be taken in light of the ongoing case.