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Let Every Child Watch: Shift the Toy Show to 7 PM!The Late Late Toy Show is more than just a TV program—it’s a beloved Irish tradition that brings families together to celebrate the magic of childhood. For many children, it’s the most anticipated night of the year, a chance to see toys, hear stories, and experience the joy of Christmas kicking off. However, the current 9:30 PM start time is simply too late for most young children. By then, many are too tired to fully enjoy the show or can’t stay up at all. This leaves parents torn between letting kids miss out on the excitement or allowing them to stay up and face the consequences of a late night. Moving the Toy Show to 7 PM would: • Allow children to fully participate in this iconic event without sacrificing their sleep. • Create magical family moments for parents and kids to share together. • Honor the tradition of the Toy Show as a celebration for all ages, ensuring that no one feels excluded. This is about making a small but meaningful change that aligns with the Toy Show’s mission of joy, connection, and inclusivity for all Irish families. Let’s make it happen!546 of 600 SignaturesCreated by Bernie Murtagh
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Abolish Daylight Savings – we don't need itWe can stay on GMT time and stay in line with the other countries on our meridians and parallels. I have asked Chat GPT to find out what he can about the adverse affects, as they have been long affecting me, myself and I am sure others. Read this: The disruption caused by Daylight Saving Time (DST) can have various effects on people’s health, well-being, and daily routines. One of the most immediate consequences is the shift in sleep patterns. When clocks are set forward in the spring, people lose an hour of sleep, which can lead to sleep deprivation and increased fatigue. This disruption can affect cognitive performance, mood, and alertness, particularly in the days following the transition. Studies have shown that the risk of car accidents and workplace injuries increases after the time change due to reduced sleep and impaired concentration. In addition to sleep issues, DST has been linked to negative health effects. Research has shown an uptick in the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and even mental health challenges in the days following the time change. The abrupt shift can also alter circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep-wake cycles, leading to disturbances that may take several days to recover from. This is especially challenging for people with pre-existing sleep disorders or those who have difficulty adjusting to changes in their routine. The long-term disruption caused by DST may also affect productivity, as people may struggle to adapt to the new schedule, leading to decreased efficiency at work or school. Furthermore, the societal rhythm of modern life, with its reliance on precise scheduling and 24/7 connectivity, makes the twice-yearly shift in time feel particularly jarring. In response to these concerns, some regions have moved to abolish DST altogether or are considering making DST permanent, arguing that the disruptions outweigh the benefits of extended daylight hours. However, while the debate continues, the evidence suggests that the transition, particularly in the spring, can be a significant disruption to daily life. Don't you think it would be more economically and socially viable to abolish it? We would be more productive and healthy a society without it. And one further request: please encourage other countries to follow suit. Go raibh mile maith agat, Taim, Sarah O'Connor6 of 100 SignaturesCreated by Sarah O'Connor
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Ban Pesticide Use in SchoolsThe 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.495 of 500 SignaturesCreated by Mary Moore, Irish Schools Sustainability Network
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Stop turning the clocks back in 2025 in IrelandThere 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.30 of 100 SignaturesCreated by Huw Roberts
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Amend Assault Leave for Teachers and Special Needs AssistantsIt is imperative that appropriate measures be put in place to support Teachers and SNAs who have been assaulted in the classroom. Anyone who suffers an assault in the workplace their sole focus should be on their recovery. I believe these amendments are crucial for the wellbeing of our educators and to ensure a safe and supportive working environment.3,106 of 4,000 SignaturesCreated by Sophie Cole
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Dublin Midwest Needs A Public Health NurseOver the last three years, areas of Dublin Mid-West, including Rathcoole, Newcastle and parts of Lucan and Clondalkin, have been without a public health nurse. This has a real impact on the local community who are missing a vital resource. This is acutely felt by newborns and their parents, who are missing out on key developmental checks that should be performed at home by a public health nurse and vital support for new parents. Gino Kenny TD first wrote to the Minister over two years ago regarding this issue and the minister assured us that new recruits would fill the position by July 2023. The post is still not filled.1 of 100 SignaturesCreated by Sadhbh Mac Lochlainn
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Host a standalone TV/livestream #GE2024 Leaders' Debate on the Climate & Biodiversity EmergencyThe 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".]876 of 1,000 SignaturesCreated by Barry McMullin
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Kenilworth For The KidsDublin faces a critical shortage of accessible green spaces, particularly during winter and after heavy rain, making it harder than ever for children to enjoy safe outdoor facilities. Delaying this project would set a discouraging precedent for similar initiatives across the city, stalling momentum and dampening hopes for the many other clubs—and countless boys and girls—who need these community spaces. Please sign the petition to support the creation of an enhanced space at Kenilworth that will make a real difference for children across Dublin!3,071 of 4,000 SignaturesCreated by Kenilworth For The Kids
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Free Period Products in All Irish Secondary SchoolsPeriod poverty occurs when someone can't afford or access suitable period products. A 2018 survey of 1,100 girls aged 12-19 living in Ireland found that approximately 50% of girls surveyed occasionally experienced period poverty, with 10% using unsuitable products as a result of cost barriers (Plan International). The evidence suggests that young students are particularly vulnerable to period poverty, shame, and stigma. The government must support the provision of free period products in second-level institutions to remove barriers to participation and well-being, while also helping to break down the stigma surrounding menstruation. In 2021, the Free Provision of Period Products Bill was proposed, yet, in October 2024, it still remains in Seanad Éireann. In 2022, the HSE National Social Inclusion Office instigated the Period Dignity Project that aimed to reduce period stigma, increase education and distribute free period products to social inclusion target groups. The project was largely successful in reducing stigma and providing products to those in need. The success of this initiative can serve as a model for implementing free period products in Irish secondary schools. We call to expedite this process and to make funding available for the provision of period products in bathrooms in all second-level institutions across Ireland. We urge you to support this vital initiative by signing our petition, recognizing that access to period products is as essential as soap and toilet paper in our schools.280 of 300 SignaturesCreated by Sheenagh Rowland
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Turkey Tail Mushroom - remove from EU novel food list.1. Cultural and Traditional Use: Turkey tail has a long history of use in traditional medicine in various cultures, it is a native mushroom to Ireland and its removal may limit access to a valued natural remedy. 2. Sustainability Concerns: Promoting its unrestricted use could encourage sustainable harvesting practices, while removal might lead to overregulation and discourage responsible foraging. 3. Consumer Choice: Many individuals seek natural health products, and removing Turkey tail from the list may restrict options for consumers looking for herbal remedies. 4. Scientific Evidence: There may be insufficient justification for its classification as a novel food if existing studies support its safety and benefits, suggesting it should be available without stringent regulations. 5. Economic Impact: For small businesses and foragers involved in the Turkey tail market, removal from the list could harm livelihoods and economic opportunities tied to its sale and use.56 of 100 SignaturesCreated by Eilís Galvez
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Everyone Needs A Medical Card, Regardless of How Much They EarnSo Ireland can have an even better and yet more efficient healthcare system. Because when patients get admitted to hospital for being sick or injured which is not their fault and they get billed, most of them usually hire a lawyer so they can get reimbursed which is a hassle, time wasting and can cost even more money. I strongly believe that the government is capable and has the money to cover the healthcare for all the residents in Ireland because the employees who work pay income taxes regularly but not only that, the items we buy in shops and the food and drinks we order from restaurants, cafés, pubs, etc all have taxes on them which go to the government upon purchase. In Ireland, public healthcare should be free and ONLY private healthcare should be paid for.2 of 100 SignaturesCreated by Ameer Hammod
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Fight for FenfluramineTogether, as one family, we can help stand with dravet children and their families' right to access Fenfluramine to help reduce their child's seizures by 75%. Each signatures means a great deal to this campaign, please sign and stand with us.1,625 of 2,000 SignaturesCreated by Sarah Kiely