Laura Harmon (Labour) | Oireachtas source

A Chathaoirligh and fellow Seanadóirí, táim an-bhuíoch as a bheith anseo. It is an honour to give my maiden contribution to the Seanad. I come to the Seanad in a spirit of collaboration, from the rebel county of Cork. I am proud to wear my red and white today. The urgent issues that we face, including housing, climate action, transport, healthcare and economic justice, demand ambition and our collective collaboration. In an era of misinformation and disinformation, this Chamber has a duty to foster considered and factual debate. I was proud to campaign passionately for the retention of the Seanad in 2013. I know that this House has the power to effect meaningful change, but we must press forward with Seanad reform.

I believe that progressive change is possible because I have lived through it, taken part in it and seen it happen directly. This year marks ten years since we passed marriage equality in Ireland. That was a defining moment for our nation. Many of us who grew up gay in this country never would have thought that moment would happen. Similarly, in 2018, repealing the eighth amendment was a moment that many of us, men and women, never thought we would see either. We need to continue with this. We cannot become complacent when it comes to minority rights, LGBTQ rights and women's rights. We need to ensure that the hard-won rights are not rolled back.

Many of my generation, because we have seen so much change, believe that a united Ireland is possible in our lifetime, one that is inclusive, prosperous and peaceful for all living on this island. I believe the Government must not shirk its responsibility to prepare for a border poll. I believe that we will see decriminalisation of drug users and a healthcare approach to addiction in this country, which will utterly transform our society for the better. I believe we will see more than one progressive left government during my lifetime. Those of us who believe in that vision need to work together collectively and collaboratively.

Ireland's housing crisis is the greatest social injustice of a generation. An entire generation has been locked out of homeownership and that security. Housing is a right, not a privilege. Too many families are struggling to access basic services for their loved ones. The lack of school places for children with additional needs is an unacceptable failure in our society. Every child deserves an inclusive, accessible education. Teachers, lecturers, special needs assistants and early years educators must be valued through their pay and working conditions. We must invest in our higher and further education institutions.

I look forward to working with all Senators to build a fairer, more equal and more just Ireland. I offer my sincere congratulations to the Cathaoirleach on his appointment. I look forward to working with him during the term of this Seanad.