The risks posed by pesticides, including the widely used chemical glyphosate, to both human health and the environment are too significant to be ignored, particularly in areas where our children spend a considerable amount of their time. The Irish Schools Sustainability Network, other environmental groups and educational organisations aim to bring about a national ban of pesticide use in these sensitive environments. Health Risks to Children Numerous studies have raised alarm about the potential health hazards of glyphosate. Classified as a "probable human carcinogen" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), exposure to glyphosate has been linked to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers. Children are particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins due to their developing bodies, the vulnerability of their immune systems and the fact that they may come into direct contact with treated grass, soil and outdoor equipment. The long-term effects of even low-level exposure to glyphosate remain poorly understood, but the precautionary principle dictates that we must err on the side of safety, especially when the health of children is at stake. Environmental Impact Chemical pesticides are not just a threat to human health but also to the environment. For example the widespread use of glyphosate has been associated with a decline in biodiversity, as it indiscriminately kills plants, leading to the destruction of habitats for insects, birds, and other wildlife. In particular, glyphosate has been linked to the decline of pollinator species, such as bees, which play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and food production. Furthermore, runoff from school grounds into nearby waterways can contaminate water supplies, affecting aquatic ecosystems and potentially entering the food chain. Alternatives to pesticides  There are safer, more sustainable alternatives to glyphosate and other pesticides that do not pose the same risks to human health or the environment. Mechanical weeding, organic herbicides, and other integrated pest management strategies can be employed to maintain school grounds without compromising the safety of our children or the surrounding ecosystem. A Call for Action Given the mounting evidence of glyphosate’s risks, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to protect our children and the environment. Banning the use of pesticides on school grounds would be a significant step towards creating a healthier, safer environment for students and reducing the broader ecological impact of harmful chemicals. We urge you to consider the growing body of scientific research, as well as the actions taken by other countries, such as Austria and France, that have restricted or banned pesticide use on school grounds. By doing so, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to public health and environmental stewardship.

There are several reasons why Ireland might benefit from not turning the clocks back in autumn and staying on daylight saving time (DST) year-round: 1. More Evening Daylight: Sticking with DST year-round would mean more daylight during the evening hours, which could lead to higher productivity, more time for outdoor activities, and increased well-being. Extra light in the evening could also be a boost for local businesses and tourism, as people tend to shop, dine, and enjoy activities longer when it’s lighter outside. 2. Improved Mental Health and Well-being: A longer period of daylight after work or school is linked to better mental health and mood. The reduction of evening darkness in winter could help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is common in places with shorter daylight hours. 3. Road Safety: Studies have shown that road accidents tend to increase after clocks are turned back, largely because of darker evenings. More evening daylight can improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians, potentially reducing the risk of accidents. 4. Energy Savings: Although this is debated, some studies suggest that extra daylight in the evening could reduce the demand for electricity, especially in households where lights and heating are used more intensively in darker hours. 5. Alignment with Europe rather than the UK: Since Brexit we no longer need to be the same as the UK. The European Union has been considering abolishing the biannual clock changes, though a final decision hasn’t been implemented. Ireland remaining on DST permanently could align it with other European countries if they decide to adopt this approach, reducing confusion and potentially benefiting trade, travel, and communication. 6. Better Routine for Children and Families: Sticking with DST year-round could make routines easier for families, as the body adjusts better to consistent daylight hours, and it would make outdoor play and activities after school more accessible. Though there are also counterarguments, like darker mornings, the benefits of consistent daylight in the evenings could outweigh them for many people in Ireland.

Action 17 of the Green Party’s energy security policy reads: " To create a Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve to protect Ireland in the event of a gas supply disruption as Ireland makes a secure transition to majority renewable energy" under a timeline of "accelerated implementation". This Action was signed off by Minister Eamon Ryan of the Green Party, Action 17 and is a Greenwashed statement that translates as Minister supporting the building of new fossil fuel infrastructure. Put simply, Action 17 has created an opening for a fracked gas import terminal to be built In Ireland. Shannon LNG’s application for a terminal on the Kerry coast has recently been remitted to An Bord Pleanála on the basis that there was no clear policy against LNG, according to High Court Judge Humphreys. The proceedings of the court, specifically in Point 117 refers to Action 17.   The Green Party on entry to the current coalition government, promised policy against LNG  and again in 2021 - but the party didn't deliver on its promises so far. Now time is running out and Action 17, along with the application for Shannon LNG being remitted to Bord Pleanála and the lack of policy against LNG terminals spells just one thing, and that is: "Fracked Gas Imports". Thousands of people came out on the streets against fracking in Ireland for public health reasons. We can't ban fracking in Ireland and then import fracked gas from the US that has poisoned men, women and children across the waters - can we?  To prevent an LNG terminal that imports fracked gas from the US, Green Party members, including its leader Roderic O'Gorman, must URGENTLY put pressure on Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan to revoke Action 17 and implement clear policy against LNG terminals before the government dissolves. 

To stop the shocking and ongoing pollution caused by the current inadequate and obsolete septic tank.

The climate and biodiversity emergency (and the wider global polycrisis it represents) is entirely different from all other issues in this general election campaign. It is global in scope, raising genuine existential risk for the stability of all human civilisation within the lifetime of young people already of voting age. It transcends and dwarfs the other “conventional” political issues: there can be no enduring solution to housing, healthcare, education, emigration, economic development, peace or justice unless there is a successful response to the climate and biodiversity emergency. For Ireland to play even its minimal fair share in such a global response would now require fundamental and disruptive changes in current political priorities. It is utterly impossible to do justice to this issue without a full debate devoted exclusively to it, and driven by an audience selected explicitly to represent future generations who are entirely reliant on the decisions being made now. "We need to focus every inch of our being on climate change. Because if we fail to do so, then all of our achievements and progress will be for nothing. And all that will remain of our political leaders’ legacy will be the greatest failure of human history. And they will be remembered as the greatest villains of all time because they have chosen not to listen and not to act." - Greta Thunberg, speech to the European Economic and Social Committee, February 2019. [Note: This initiative follows on a previous petition during the #GE2020 election campaign. Image credit: sculpture by Isaac Cordal, "Follow the leaders".] 

There is a planning application in by FuturEnergy that proposes an Untested Battery Energy Storage System in Ballynahone, Buncrana.   It is quite a large industrial operation that proposes to house iron-air batteries to store energy for the grid in 248 shipping containers, in a short proximity to our homes. There is a complete disregard for our community. FuturEnergy have met with local residents, but they were unable to fully address our questions and concerns. The manufacturers in the USA, Form Energy, have only just completed the construction of their manufacturing plant in 2024. Why should we be the guinea pigs? Some of the risks we are concerned about include: • Destruction of forestry - A large area of forestry to be cut down with no thought given to wildlife. • Health concerns - FuturEnergy are unable to advise of health risks as they do not know what they will be. • Environmental damage - Polluting rivers, streams and farmland • Fire Hazard - Potential risk of dangerous, uncontrollable fires. We would be grateful if you could sign your support in objection to this project. The deadline for personal submissions to the planning authority is 27th of October . More information can be found on our Facebook page : @Buncrana - Fahan Against Untested Battery Storage https://tinyurl.com/Buncrana-Fahan

Installing a pedestrian crossing/traffic lights would improve safety for pedestrians of all ages, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, when crossing the busy roads in Kilmuckridge. Drivers are more likely to pay attention to and yield to pedestrians at a designated crossing.  Advocating for this would help encourage a culture of mutual respect among pedestrians and drivers, so we can all contribute to a safer community for residents and visitors in Kilmuckridge, Co. Wexford. 

The Grand Canal has been a valued public amenity in this part of Dublin since the late 18th century, and a core green space for local residents since. Its a valuable part of our city's heritage and brings relief to local residents on their daily commutes, runs, and walks. In response to rough sleeping in the area brought about by poor planning, mismanagement of resources, and ineffective government agency responses over several years, Waterways Ireland has erected preventative fencing along the canal. This has deprived the local residents of their public realm and created an brutal eyesore for all who pass by. These fences must be removed, government agencies must be resourced to take swift action to accommodate and help our rough sleepers, and our public realm must be reclaimed for the benefit of all!

I think I can safely say that I speak for every single Irish Rugby Fan with this petition.  This is Irish Rugby's 150th Anniversary, a landmark season that needs to be a stand out one and recognized globally.  This can't be done with the generic, collarless, socceresque jersey that was released last week.  This can't only be done with the traditional, iconic white collared Green & Gold Jersey that was announced today.  Forget the talk of limited edition, we don't want this as a souvenir jersey with no game time played in it, all true Irish Rugby fans urge the IRFU, Canterbury & Elverys Sports to reconsider their decision while there's still time and make this absolutely stunning design as Irish Rugby's home Jersey for the 2024/2025 season.  Do your part by signing this position but also do that little bit more and point blank refuse to buy the forgettable, round neck, turquoise jersey that was released last week.  Thanks for taking the time to read  Philip O'Reilly 

From the Causeway Coast to Newcastle, NI Water have discharged sewage into coastal bathing waters across NI for 8,993 hours in 2023. According to the new analysis from the Belfast Telegraph, those pipes are releasing untreated sewage directly into or close to bathing waters that are protected by law. Not only that, NI Water is only monitoring a fraction of the pipes. NI Water needs to first come clean on the amount of sewage it is pumping into our waters. Analysis found in bathing waters in Newcastle found a pipe near the central promenade discharging for 1,532 hours! Testers are discovering forms of bacteria found in human intestines and poo. Swimmers, kayakers, coastal walkers and everyone in society deserve clean and safe bathing water. It is time for NI Water to stop protecting polluters and start protecting our waters and livelihoods. 

The new ban on electric scooters on public transport is planned to be implemented in October, and will negatively affect thousands of commuters that rely heavily on these alternative modes of transportation for part of their journeys to and from Work.   A large number of commuters rely on Electric scooters to get to and from the train, bus, and other forms of public transport, on both sides of their journey. This means that they can leave the car at home and not contribute to private vehicle congestion in already congested areas.    Despite being considered an environmentally friendly and efficient commuting option, electric scooters will be banned on Public transport under new rules. The reason provided was that the lithium-ion batteries used by many electric scooters pose a fire hazard on board.   The lack of real consideration for commuters by the NTA will seriously limit mobility freedom for many citizens in suburban towns. This move also sends a negative message for people looking to move to more environmentally friendly transportation alternatives.   We urge the NTA to revisit this ban, and re-examine the risks associated with electric scooters on board, and implement any necessary mitigating controls on board rather than outright prohibition.   Your signature can promote the reconsideration of this ban. We ask you to support us for greener and more inclusive transportation alternatives. Please sign the petition.  

1. **Preservation of Community Investment:** The letter underscores the significant voluntary efforts made by Dermot Maguire and others in transforming the Garden, framing the request for CCTV and lighting as a necessary means to protect their hard work. 2. **Deterrent to Vandalism:** By emphasizing that the proposed measures would serve as a deterrent, the letter highlights the practical benefits of these investments in preventing future incidents. 3. **Enhancing Safety and Security:** The importance of public lighting and CCTV in creating a safe environment is stressed, making it clear that these additions would not only protect the Garden but also make it more welcoming to residents. 4. **Community Pride and Well-being:** The letter positions the Garden as a symbol of community pride, arguing that the Council’s support is crucial in maintaining this shared public asset for future generations.