Can “Just Transition” fail to be a transition that is just?

Can “Just Transition” fail to be a transition that is just? Definitely. What is needed is a national transition strategy that is just, in compliance with the Aarhus convention, respects everybody equally and supports everyone affected. That must begin immediately. Ultimately this lack of a coordinated, whole of society action is a gross injustice to the young people of Ireland, the world and future generations.

Climate Dialogue, Covid19 Ready, in 7 steps

In 2016 the Irish government announced a National Dialogue on Climate Action. Only 4 events have been held within the past 4 years so it falls on the current government to ensure that dialogue proceeds at pace. In a Covid19 world how will that happen? Convene a National co-ordination team: First and foremost there hasContinue reading “Climate Dialogue, Covid19 Ready, in 7 steps”

Imagine Science

Over the past 3 weeks we have had daily briefings about the pandemic, by the government. The nation has come to recognise the Chief Medical Officer over everyone else in these past weeks. We have an emergency. We have the scientist qualified in that field advising. We are being briefed by the experts in that area. RightlyContinue reading “Imagine Science”

Imagine School

Schools have been shut for 3 weeks now. College students have gone home for the remainder of the academic year. Junior and Leaving Cert students have all been given top marks in the oral exams they couldn’t take in March. Deadlines for practical and course work have been extended to late May. Uncertainty hangs overContinue reading “Imagine School”

Imagine Meetings

Things have changed with meetings. The formal boardroom has learned to adapt or gone into retirement. Casual group meetings are now a more structured activity. A visit to the grandparents means wiping fingerprints off the screens. People are sharing a cup of tea or glass of wine and a chat with friends via their laptops.Continue reading “Imagine Meetings”

Imagine Healthcare

Imagine Irish emigrants returning home because there are jobs here for them. All those medical professionals who had studied for years in Irish universities and colleges finally able to return to practice their trade at home. Imagine nurses and frontline staff, who had been on strike over conditions and pay a year earlier, being celebratedContinue reading “Imagine Healthcare”

Imagine Gardening

The past couple of weeks have seen a surge in seed orders across Ireland. Coupled with beautiful weather and nothing much else to be doing, half the country will probably be in the garden this weekend and into next week. Very often people talk about daffodils, roses and the greenest grass when discussing their garden but theContinue reading “Imagine Gardening”

Imagine Holidays

One significant global action taken during the Covid19 response has been the grounding of airplanes. As well as causing major problems for people stranded abroad, it has messed up lots of our holiday plans. The Irish tourism industry has put a call out for Irish people to holiday in Ireland and help make up theContinue reading “Imagine Holidays”