Eileen Flynn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Amendment No. 58 seeks to ensure that we are working towards achieving the UN sustainable development goals. These goals should be included in the national planning framework and should inspire and drive us all. They include no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable energy, direct work and economic growth. These goals are international. When people are struggling to feed their families or heat their homes, are faced with racism and discrimination on a daily basis, or are denied employment, the last thing on their minds is climate change. When people do not have access to clean water or safe accommodation, how can they focus on their education? Achieving these goals will create the inclusive, sustainable society we need to move forward. I know that the sustainable development goals are close to the Minister of State and the Green Party. He has an opportunity to accept the amendment.

Amendment No. 68 seeks to ensure accessibility and inclusion.

We need to ensure that we are fulfilling our obligation in reference to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the national planning framework, by recognising the needs of the disabled person in our planning laws. That is a given.

Amendment No. 77 highlights the importance of Irish neutrality. The Government has tried to undermine our neutrality in recent years and we must not allow this. We must ensure our commitment to peace and access to human rights in Europe and across the globe.

Amendment No. 80 seeks to include the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission among the list of organisations that the Minister will consult with before reviewing the national planning framework. Again, our amendments are simple, to the point and extremely doable. Today, we need the political will.