Direct democracy movement proposes ‘Plan B’ scheme for Ireland’s recovery
Political activists have launched a ‘recovery plan’ that they say will deliver much-needed jobs and protection of vital public services in Ireland.
Speaking at the launch of their ‘Plan B’, Claiming Our Future spokesperson Rory Hearne said: “We have reached crisis point. The budget is looming and if we want to avoid further devastation now is the time to act.”
Claiming Our Future describes itself as a “movement of individuals and organisations trying to bring about a society based on the values of equality, environmental sustainability, participation, accountability and solidarity”.
Hearne said the movement was “not prepared to accept” a situation where “unemployment is at historic high levels and a generation of young people are facing years of dole queues and forced emigration”.
Dr Mary Murphy of NUI Maynooth, also of the group, added that austerity is “failing to deliver the results promised” and offered Plan B as “a workable and realistic alternative”.
“Plan B identifies sources of investment to create jobs. It proposes tax reform that will ensure that those with the most pay the most and it prioritises public services that our families and community rely on,” she said.
Hearne, a community regeneration worker, said it was “not true” that we have no choice in the matter.
“We have the capacity within our existing resources to change direction. It is about how resources are used and distributed that really matters,” he said.
Dr Murphy elaborated that it is “morally and economically wrong to pursue an approach which is not only making recovery less likely but is forcing vulnerable individuals and families to bear the disproportionate burden of cuts and pain. “Leadership is key, and Claiming Our Future is standing up for a society that is just and fair.”
Hearne said the movement wants all Irish people, including recent emigrants, to know “that there are options for recovery, that we have real choices and that we the people have a right to demand solutions that work in our collective interest.
“We need a national conversation about Plan B and encourage people to show their support by signing the online petition, by organising discussions in their homes, workplaces and communities and by letting their political representatives know how they feel.”
Hearne and Dr Murphy were joined at the launch by Fergus Finlay, CEO of Barnardos; Leanne Caulfield, honorary president of the Irish Second Level Students’ Union; and statistician Tom Healy.
