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Home , Ardfheis, Eamon Ryan, Hazel Chu, Mark Dearey, Steven Agnew, The Greens (Poland)

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Langton’s Hotel, Kilkenny 27th-28th March 2015 Leader’sTechnical welcome Motions Running order

A Chairde, FRIDAY 27 MARCH: Set Theatre Welcome to the 2015 Green 7.00pm-7.30pm Green Party Website Workshop for Party Annual Convention. Candidates and Campaign Managers It’s great to be here in 7.30pm-10.00pm Public Debate: Community at the Crossroads Kilkenny, theMotion Marble ACity, – Regional • Declan Rice - Kilkenny Leader where our QuotasEnvironment for NEC NOTE: If passed at Convention Chair (or in his/herPartnership absence in a non-voting capacity by Spokesperson Cllr Malcolm 2013, this amendment would the Deputy Chair)• Sadhbh of National O’Neill - Environmentalthe General Secretary Pillar and the Noonan willElections be standing in the immediately apply to the Council. • Patricia Brennan -Chair Community (or in his/her Workers absence Carlow - Kilkenny by-election election of the new NEC at Proposed new textCo-op with the Deputy Chair) of National in just a fewProposer: weeks time. NEC I hope Convention 2013. amendments in bold. Council. you will all act as ambassadors SATURDAY5.6 28 National MARCH Executive for MalcolmExplanation: and our party this towns andCurrent villages. Text We need 9.00am Committee CompositionRegistration opens Motion B – Number weekend, andThe do NEC your wish part to to propose to a address 5.6 them National all if we Executive are 9.30am-10.15amThe NationalReports Executive required to constitute a ensure thatchange Malcolm to theis returned manner in whichto reinvigorate Committee the vibrant Composition 10.15am-11.15amCommittee shallMotions comprise: as a TD to theit is elected.Daíl. As the processrural economy,The National and attract Executive the 11.15am-11.30ama) the PartyBreak Leader; Constituency Group Kilkennycurrently is a fitting stands, place each NECinvestment Committee which creates shall comprise:jobs. 11.30am-12.15pmb) the DeputyPanel Leader; Discussion on DigitalProposer: Rights Limerick to hold thismust annual be comprisedmeeting of of at leastHow do a)we the make Party places Leader; like c) the Cathaoirleach;• Ann O’Dea (Silicon Republic)“We call on the Green Party to our party. Thistwo persons county isfrom one each of Carlowthe and Kilkennyb) the Deputy the best Leader; d) a representative• T J McIntyre selected (Digitalreduce Rights the Ireland) number required to of the mostfive fertile regions in Ireland, (based on thecase EU examplesc) the of Cathaoirleach;a new green 12.15pm-1.15pmin advance ofMotions each Annual continue constitute a Constituency Group with excitingconstituencies: times ahead Dublin, for East,economy andd) society a representative that is selected1.15pm-1.30pm Convention NECby the Hustings Young Greens from 10 to 5 as defined within food producers,South, but North-West, like the Northernfairer and inmore advance secure? of each That Annual is 1.30pm-2.30pm / Óige GhlasLunch; our party constitution.” rest of theIreland). country These it is at two the persons the can question Convention we need byto answerthe Young Greens2.30pm-3.30pm e) a Treasurer,Panel elected Discussion on Housing5.1.1 A Constituency Group crossroadscome of how from we the develop ten members this weekend./ Óige Ghlas; individually by• preferendum John Fitzgerald at (ESRI)must be recognised by the a truly greenelected agriculture at National sector. Convention, Take youre) time a Treasurer, to deliberate elected each Annual Convention;• Dermot Sellars (NABCO)National Executive Committee Tourism andor mayheritage be among are key the fiveand engageindividually with the motions by preferendum at f) 10 other members• Cllr. Ciaran elected Cuffe -according Green Party to Rules and to its success,persons but whothe powers get onto NECon offer, andeach good Annual luck Convention;to those by preferendum• Joanat each Campbell Annual - GreenProcedures Party and in consultation that be stillautomatically, think knocking as a result ofstanding for f)election 10 other to membersthe NEC. elected3.30pm-3.40pm Convention Cathaoirleachso that [delete: address “of with– Cllr. the Roderic relevant Regional down the oldtheir city officer to build positions a withinI wish the youby allpreferendum a great weekend at each Annual the 15 membersO’Gorman there will be”] Group where one exists. The new road makesParty (Leader, sense. DeputyThe Leader,and I look forwardConvention to seeing so that as of the 153.40pm-4.10pm i) of the 15Candidates members thereSession: electionminimum focused membership must be issues hereChairperson, about access Treasurer, to Youngmany of youmembers as possible. there will be: will be at leastdiscussion one member of 10 paid-up members. public transport,Greens broadband, rep). i) at least one member of the the Parliamentary• Cara Party Augustenborg and not - Green Party energy, postal,This banking situation and is problematic Parliamentary Party and not more than three• Hazel Chu - Cllr. PatrickRationale: Costello’s The definition of a water services,as a) in are the those last two with NEC more than three ii) of the 15 membersCampaign ManagerConstituency in LE 2014 Group was defined resonanceelections, for so many we hadIrish problems ii) at least one local there will be at• leastCllr. oneClaire local Byrne -ad Green 10 members Party was ratified filling our regional quotas of two government representative4.10pm-4.30pmgovernmentBreak representative at a time when the party had from some regions b) a region’s iii) at least two members4.30pm-5.20pm iii) of the 10Panel members Discussion on Publicit’s largest Banking membership.At with this quota can be filled by two resident in each EU constituency elected at ConventionEconomist Drthere Richard Wernertime membership and Cllr. Mark has fallen AnnualParty officers, Draw without Tickets anyone covered by the Party. will be at leastDearey one member and the number required for Our annualfrom draw that tickets region arebeing available actually to purchase.If the above conditions and5.20pm-5.30pm resident in eachDeputy EU constituency Leader speech a– ConstituencyCllr. Catherine Group should All profitselected will help at Annual us to maintain Convention. our Headgender Office andbalance support cannot both covered by theMartin Party. reflect this fact. our candidatesIn order through to address the next this, General the Election.be satisfied Please by the candidates5.40pm-6.00pm If the aboveParty conditions Leader and speech – Eamon Ryan support theNEC draw is proposing which will two take changes, place on Saturdayavailable, eveningadditional members7.30pm-8.30pm gender balanceDinner cannot in Langton’s both Restaurant after dinneroutlined in Langton’s below. First Hotel. of all, from will be selected to achieve be satisfied by the candidates Please talknow to on one each of our region sellers will toonly get be your genderticket(s) balance. at €10 In this eventSUNDAY 29available, MARCH additional members each or £8.automatically Your support entitled is greatly to one appreciated. the next highest ranking males11.00am-1.00pm will be selectedMeitheal/Canvass/Leaflet to achieve Drop for Carlow/ member of NEC. However, this or females in the preferendum gender balance.Kilkenny In this By-Election event Candidate Cllr. Malcolm automatic position must come will be elected. Failing this the the next highestNoonan. ranking Meet males at 11am in the Langton Hotel Childrenfrom among at the Convention ten individuals National Executive Committee or females inCar the Park preferendum to canvass Kilkenny city centre. As always,elected children at Annualare very Convention. available forwill childrenco-opt members to use on to achieve will be elected. Failing this the welcome atAs Convention such, the Party. We officer the day. gender balance. LuchtNational na Executive Gaeilge Committee ag an Ardfheis have a designatedpositions roomwill not count towardsParents areMeetings free to shalluse the be attendedBeidh luchtwill co-optna Gaeilge members sa pháirtí to achieve ag teacht le chéile go sóisialta available forfilling children a regions in the automatic room at anyin atime non-voting they wish capacity by den chéadgender uair agbalance. Ardfheis an Chomhaontais Ghlais i mbliana Green Room,position. located in the but pleasethe note General that it Secretary is not and theag 8pm DéMeetings hAoine 27 shall Márta be attended. Más mian leat deis a fháil aithne a upper tier in the Set Theatre a supervised crèche and chur ar chainteoirí Gaeilge eile an pháirtí agus eolas a fháil faoi and we hope to have colouring parents are responsible for fhorbairtí nua Gaeilge sa pháirtí, bí linn ag Óstán Langton ag an pencils, paper and books their children at all times. am thuas. Cuir ceist ag fáiltiú an ostáin chun muid a aimsiú.

Page 2 | ConventionPage 6 | 2015Convention 2013 facebook.com/GreenPartyireland @greenparty_ie greenparty.ie Guest speakers Malcolm’s welcome A chairde Glas, Prof. Richard Ann O’Dea Thar ceann an Comhaontas Werner Glas i gCeatharlach agus Cill Chainnigh...teastaíonn uaim Richard has Co-founder of fáilte ‘s fichead a chur roimh been at the Siliconrepublic. na toscairí ar fad go dtí an University of com, Ann is a tionól seo i gcathair álainn Cill Southampton leading voice Chainnigh. since 2004. He in the Irish On behalf of the Carlow/ is Director of technology Kilkenny Green Party I International Development and industry. am delighted to welcome in Carlow/Kilkenny we have a founding Director of the Centre After a long stint abroad in delegates to the Green Party shot at being back this year. for Banking, Finance and France and Italy, Ann returned Annual Convention 2015 in our We have a wonderful team of Sustainable Development. to Ireland and worked for beautiful city of Kilkenny. volunteers who will leave no Richard’s book ‘Princes of the several years as a freelance We are here in the aftermath stone unturned to win back a Yen’ became a No. 1 bestseller technology and business of a hugely successful local and seat in this constituency. in Japan. His 2005 book ‘New journalist, contributing to European election campaign, I would like to wish you all the Paradigm in Macroeconomics’ a variety of publications where we returned many best for the weekend ahead. correctly predicted the collapse including the Irish Times, Irish exceptional people to local Enjoy the lively debates and of the UK banking system and Independent and the Sunday government, and came within a make sure to catch up with old property market. It highlighted Tribune. whisker of a European success friends. I hope you will get some the problem of ‘recurring Ann is coordinator of the with Eamon. Many other time to explore our beautiful city banking crises’ and suggested long-running Women Invent candidates also came so very and county during your stay. workable solutions. Tomorrow campaign, which close to electoral success. I would like to thank the He coined the term ‘Quantitative champions role models in the Having a Green voice in local Langton family for making Easing’ in 1995 about bringing areas of science, technology, government is vital to re- us feel so welcome in the growth to the Japanese economy. engineering and maths. establishing ourselves on the wonderful Set Theatre, and political landscape in Ireland; a our coordinating committee presence we know is needed for their work in putting Hazel Chu John Fitzgerald more now than ever. I am together the programme Hazel is Head John has been certain that our party will be for the weekend. Here’s to a of Corporate a Research back in Dáil Éireann following successful Convention 2015. and Trade Affiliate at the the General Election, and here Malcolm Communications ESRI since at Diageo, Ireland. November 2014. She is responsible Prior to that he for Diageo’s overall reputation, was a Research Professor there T J McIntyre Dermot Sellers crisis management, corporate and Programme Coordinator T J is a law and brand communications. of the Macroeconomics lecturer at Dermot is Policy and Hazel has over 15 years Research Area. He is President University Communications Manager of industry experience with of the Association d’Instituts College Dublin with NABCO, Ireland’s national specific expertise in reputation Européens de Conjoncture where he federation for the co- management and building agile Économique and a former specialises in operative housing movement. communication strategies. president of the Irish Economic issues involving Within NABCO his Before Diageo, she held Association. information technology law and responsibilities include senior positions in semi-state He is currently a member civil liberties. supporting the governance and non-profit organisations, of the Commission of the He holds a BCL from and strategic planning of the including Forfás, Bord Bia and Central Bank of Ireland University College Dublin and organisation and representing MS Ireland. and of the Independent a PhD from the University of and promoting the co- She graduated from King’s Expert Panel established in Edinburgh. His doctoral thesis operative model. Inns and subsequently 2014 by the Department of was on the topic of internet He represents the received a fellowship to Communications. filtering law and governance. Association on the Community complete an MSc in marketing He was a member of the He qualified as a barrister in and Voluntary Pillar of social practice from UCD Smurfit EU “Group for Economic King’s Inns, Dublin. partnership and on the National Business School. She is Analysis” from 2002-2004 He is chairman of the Homeless Consultative currently a board member of advising the President of the EU independent civil liberties Committee. VSO Ireland. Commission. group Digital Rights Ireland.

Convention 2015 | Page 3 NEC TechnicalElections Motions Green Party's character as a party of strong social justice principles, and I would hope This year’s NEC election will to bring a youthful vision, be for four seats. Six seats voice and energy to the NEC. have been automatically filled Working in law and studying based on regional and gender politics has given me a broad representation.Motion A – Regional experience which I think The automaticallyQuotas for elected NEC NOTE: If passed at Convention Chair (or in his/her absencecould be helpfulin a non-voting in creating capacity by candidates are: 2013, this amendment would the Deputy Chair) of Nationala coherence the bothGeneral of policySecretary and the Steven ElectionsAgnew (Northern Ireland) immediately apply to the Council. and organisationChair (or in in the his/her Green absence Margaret Sheehan (Connacht) election of the new NEC at Proposed new text with Party so thatthe Deputy we can Chair) bring ourof National Mary RyderProposer: (Munster) NEC Convention 2013. amendments in bold. messageCouncil. of change to the Irish Rachel Powers (Munster) 5.6 National Executive people in this election year. SuzanneExplanation: McEneaney (Leinster) Current Text Committee Composition Motion B – Number Seán Ó BuachallaThe NEC wish(Leinster). to propose a 5.6 National Executive The National Executive John Hardyrequired to constitute a change to the manner in which Committee Composition Committee shall comprise:Green it is elected. As the process The National Executive a) the Party Leader; comrades,Constituency Group The candidatescurrently stands, contesting each NEC the Committeefour remaining shall comprise: seats are:b) the Deputy Leader; I would likeProposer: Limerick must be comprised of at least a) the Party Leader; c) the Cathaoirleach; to take this“We call on the Green Party to two persons from each of the b) the Deputy Leader; d) a representative selectedopportunity reduce to the number required to Dave Goslingfive regions (based on theto EU ensure a Greenc) the Cathaoirleach; perspective, NEC 2015/16.in advance of each Annual ask for yourconstitute a Constituency Group Since joiningconstituencies: Dublin, East,and prevent d)the a representativespread of all selectedI have servedConvention by the Young Greenssupport infrom seeking 10 to to 5 asserve defined within the Party South, North-West, Northernforms of politicalin advance extremism of each Annualon NEC for/ Óige Ghlas; you as a memberour party of constitution.” the NEC in 2008 I Ireland). These two personsand can militarism. Convention by the Young Greensthe past twoe) a Treasurer, elected representing5.1.1 Northern A Constituency Ireland. Group have seen comea from the ten membersI am a Midwife,/ Óige Ghlas Nurse; and years, andindividually by preferendumI am at currentlymust thebe recognised Secretary by the fully staffedelected at National Convention,Pacifist. I abhore) a violenceTreasurer, and elected have workedeach Annual Convention; of the GreenNational Party Executive in Northern Committee organisationor may be among the fivetorture, andindividually will work tirelesslyby preferendum over at that timef) 10 other members electedIreland andaccording have served to Rules on and in persons who get onto NECfor Humaneach Rights. Annual Convention; to rebuild byour preferendum at each Annualthe NEC forProcedures the previous and intwo consultation Governmentautomatically, and a Volunteer as a result of f) 10 other members electedparty. I alsoConvention stood in the so that2014 [delete: years. “of I wouldwith thevery relevant much like Regional organisationtheir in theofficer wilderness. positions withinTom theKivlehan by preferendum at each Annuallocal elections, the 15 getting members 890 there first willto be”] continueGroup in this where capacity, one exists. The I believed theParty party’s (Leader, realistic Deputy Leader,I am a formerConvention so that of the preference15 votes.i) of the I would 15 members like to therehelping tominimum build stronger membership links must be policies couldChairperson, make the Treasurer, country YoungCouncillor members there will be: continue thiswill workbe at forleast another one member between of the10 paid-up regions members. within a better place.Greens I think rep). we are (Dun i) at least one member ofyear, the focusingthe Parliamentary on fundraising Party andour not party. Please lend me your more neededThis than situation ever. Now, is problematic Laoghaire/ Parliamentary Party and notto ensure morethe party than staysthree open, support forRationale: another The term. definition of a sitting somewhatas a) in theat the last centre two NEC Rathdownmore than three and I'd like toii) continue of the 15 making members Thank you.Constituency Group was defined of the politicalelections, spectrum, we had problems2004-2009), ii) at least one local reasonablethere contributions will be at leastat the one local ad 10 members was ratified I believe wefilling can sell our our regional quotasa trusteeof two ofgovernment the Green Party,representative table, planninggovernment for the representativegrowing Aengus Óat a time when the party had balanced/practical/long-termfrom some regions b) a region’sSpokesperson iii) aton least Transport two members future of theiii) Greens. of the 10I would members Corráin it’s largest membership.At this vision to thequota electorate. can be filled I want by twoand have workedresident onin eacha number EU constituency like to ask elected if you would at Convention please thereMy nametime is membership has fallen to be on theParty NEC officers, to help ensure without anyoneof policy committeescovered by theincluding Party. consider mewill for be your at least NEC one vote. member Aengus Óand the number required for a Strong/Principled/Realistic/from that region being actuallyEnergy, Waste,If the Water above and conditions andI am seekingresident a nomination in each EU constituencyCorráin. I’ma Constituency Group should Unbowed campaignelected at inAnnual 2016. Convention.Planning. Professionally,gender balance I cannot have bothto the Nationalcovered Executive by the Party. a practicingreflect this fact. I have been DSEIn order Chair, to ledaddress the this,a the business be promoting satisfied tourismby the candidates Committee inIf theorder above to do conditions all I andBarrister from 5 Year StrategyNEC is Group proposing and two changes,in Ireland andavailable, have strongadditional memberscan to maximisegender thebalance electoral cannot bothCork. My practice includes Membershipoutlined Development below. First sub- of all,management from will beexperience. selected to achievevote for thebe Green satisfied Party by atthe candidatescommercial, planning, and Group. I amnow currently on each National region will only We be needgender a team balance. with a broad In this eventLocal , Nationalavailable, and additional European members human-rights law. I’m working Fundraisingautomatically Coordinator. entitled to onerange of skillsthe next and highestI am asking ranking maleselections. will be selected to achieve with the Agriculture, Planning, member of NEC. However,you this for youror femalessupport in and the No preferendum 1 gender balance. In this eventand Justice Policy groups. Pat Kinsellaautomatic position must comevote, to givewill our be partyelected. a strong Failing thisDónal the Swanthe next highest ranking malesI’ve previously worked for The Greenfrom among the ten individualsteam on ourNational National Executive Executive Committee My name isor Donalfemales Swan, in the I've preferendum Greenpeace in America and Party has elected at Annual Convention.Committee will , that co-opt will membershelp to achieverecently finishedwill be elected. studying Failing law thisdid the a Masters in Environmental a vital role As such, the Party officer prepare thegender Green balance. Party for the in UCD andNational Executive CommitteeLaw in TCD. My hope is to help to play in positions will not count towardsforthcoming Meetings election andshall the be attendedI'm currently will co-opt members to achievegrow the party from a small protectingfilling the a regions automaticchallenging in yeara non-voting ahead. capacity byworking ingender balance. one to a large one. Action on environment,position. the General Secretary andDublin the as a Meetings shall be attendedclimate change is needed now. the planet and people, and Cormac Manning paralegal. I am Ireland needs a big, influential making a positive difference to A chairde, my name is Cormac passionate Green Party to make these all on this island. The effort is Manning and I'm running for about the changes. I hope you will give

Page 4 | ConventionPage 6 | 2015Convention 2013 facebook.com/GreenPartyireland @greenparty_ie greenparty.ie me the chance to grow the party on the National Executive Catering Committee when you vote. The hotel will have tea and coffee stations set Phil Kearney up throughout the day. Member All sales are on a cash basis. A lunch menu of soup and a choice of meat and vegetarian sandwiches since 1982, is available priced at €6.50 per person. A dinner menu is available in the hotel restaurant @ €25 for helped to draft three courses. (There will also be more vegetarian and vegan options available today.) the seven principles. Starter Confit of duck leg on a bed of mash, butternut Member of Homemade soup of the evening served with squash, puree black cherry jus. the NEC in the ‘80s, ‘90s and homemade brown bread. Asian style veg stir-fry on a bed of egg noodles, noughties. Coordinator twice. Duo of melon and pineapple, seasonal berries chili & sweet soy sauce. Campaign manager for ’09 local and exotic fruit coulis. Grilled 8oz sirloin steak, golden fried onion rings elections. Contested leadership Salmon-filled mushroom caps on mixed leaves & peppercorn sauce (Supplement €2.00.) in 2011. More recently a founder with garlic dip. Smoked bacon chorizo and sundried tomato on a of the An Taisce climate Piri piri chicken wings with Cajun mayonnaise. bed of pasta. change committee. Divide my Main course Dessert time between climate activism Oven baked supreme of chicken, mozzarella, Langtons style cheesecake with cassis coulis. and a hillfarm in SW Wicklow chorizo and sundried tomato filling, served with Baileys & brown bread ice-cream gateau served - forestry and sheep. GP/ baby potatoes, ratatouille and balsamic jus. with hot butterscotch sauce. CG is the only party likely to Cajun spiced salmon on a bed of stir-fry Warm chocolate fudge cake served with hot prioritise the existential threats vegetables and coriander rice. chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream posed by climate change in Thai red chicken curry served on a bed of rice, ~~~ the forthcoming election and mint yoghurt dressing. to articulate a coherent and Freshly brewed tea and coffee. radical response to those threats. This is why I wish to be on the NEC. Transport (to Dublin on Sunday 29th) Tom Duffy Irish Rail: MacDonagh Junction is a six minute Bus Eireann: Kilkenny Railway Station is a five Father, walk away from Langtons. Trains leave at 1:18, minute walk away from Langtons. Bus #7 leaves Volunteer, 3:30, 3:49 and 6:43, and arrive at Dublin Houston at 12:30, 1:05, 3:30, 4:40 and 6:25, and arrives at Architect, Station at 2:50, 5:06, 5:20 and 8:20 respectively. Dublin Heuston Station at 2:35, 3:22, 5:25, 6:35 Businessman. Approximate cost for journey is €26. and 8:30 respectively. Approximate cost for Born in Dublin's Dublin Coach: MacDonagh Junction is a six journey is €13. Northside in minute walk away from Langtons. Coaches J.J. Kavanagh Coaches: Kilkenny Castle is a 1969. Educated in Marino and leave at 11:40, 1:40, 3:40 and 5:40, and arrive at six minute walk away from Langtons. Coaches Bolton Street DIT. Married Dublin d’Olier Street at 1:15, 3:15, 5:15 and 7:15 leave at 11:50, 3:10 and 5:50, and arrive at Dublin to Dolly Victoria Arias from respectively. Approximate cost for journey is Eden Quay at 1:35, 5:40 and 7:50 respectively. Colombia. Two Sons, Finnegus €10. Approximate travel cost is €13. Antonio Arias and Edgardo Fintan Arias. Architect & Curator at Green Design Build Design Gallery & Office Voting in Leeson Street Dublin, A huge thank you... promoting Sustainable All non-probationary Architecture, Art, Handmade members who Crafts. Volunteer with St. have renewed their A huge thank you to our Malcolm’s team who’ve Vincent de Paul Gardiner membership for 2015 Convention team and also worked tirelessly Street and Clarendon Street committed volunteers to ensure our members Dublin. Main interests include will be entitled to who have worked really are well taken care of practical Social Justice, social vote. If you haven’t hard over the last few over the few days. housing crisis, Political Reform, renewed already, it weeks to organise Also a big thank you Anti Corruption in Politics, is very simple – you this year’s annual to Langton’s Hotel real practical sustainable can renew at the Convention. for going above and development , Education, and A special mention beyond in helping us meaningful well paid jobs well registration desk or to the local Carlow/ to make it a successful distributed throughout Ireland. online at greenparty.ie Kilkenny group and weekend.

Convention 2015 | Page 5 TechnicalTechnical Motions Motions Motions and Policy Saturday 28th March Motion A – End Term This is to cater for situations • 5.2.3 Each Regional (section 5.03) would apply so Limits throughout the where Constituency Groups Group shall have a Co- that these two members could Constitution have become inactive. ordinator for the purpose of be of the same sex if necessary Motion A – Regional communications.” for gender balance. Proposer: QuotasNEC for NEC Motion D NOTE:– Remove If passed at Convention Chair (or in his/her absence in a non-voting capacity by 2013, this amendment wouldExplanation: the TheDeputy exception Chair) ofin National the General Secretary and the Elections the Requirement for Motion H – Remove Delete: immediately apply to the 5.2.2 relatesCouncil. to the Green Party RequirementChair (or infor his/her absence • section 5.05, Constituencyelection ofand the new NEC atin NorthernProposed Ireland. newNo other text with the Deputy Chair) of National • sectionProposer: 5.3.4 1st sentence, NEC RegionalConvention Development 2013. Regional Groupsamendments are operative in bold. GeneralCouncil. Secretary • section 5.6.1 1st sentence. Plans at present.5.6 National Executive Proposer: NEC Explanation: Current Text Committee Composition Motion B – Number ExplanationThe NEC wish to proposeProposer: a 5.6 NEC National Executive Motion TheF – National Remove Executive • In sectionsrequired 5.1.4 and to 5.2.6 constitute a Term limitschange were suspended to the manner in which Committee Composition the RequirementCommittee shall for comprise: [if not deleted under Item under sectionit is elected. 5.05 but As have the processnot Delete sectionThe National 5.1.4 and Executive section a) the Party Leader; 7] replaceConstituency “the General Group been reviewed.currently This stands, proposal each is NEC5.2.6. Committee shall comprise:Delegatesb) tothe national Deputy Leader; Secretary”Proposer: by “Party Limerick staff”. to abolish them.must be comprised of at least a) the Party Leader; Council toc) bethe Cathaoirleach;Elected at • In section“We 5.5 call on the Green Party to two persons from each of Explanationthe b) the Deputy Leader; the First d)Meeting a representative after selected• amend reduce section the 5.5(a) number to required to Motion Bfive – Makeregions it(based on theThe EU Party doesc) the not Cathaoirleach; currently Conventionin advance of each Annual “To employconstitute staff, a who Constituency Group Easier toconstituencies: Amalgamate Dublin, East,have the staffd) toa representative guide this selected Convention by the Young Greensmay includefrom 10 a Generalto 5 as defined within South, North-West, Northernprocess. in advance of each AnnualProposer: / NECÓige Ghlas; Secretary”;our party constitution.” ConstituencyIreland). TheseGroups two persons can Convention by the Young Greens e) a Treasurer, elected • delete section5.1.1 A 5.5(b) Constituency and re- Group Proposer NECcome from the ten membersMotion E/ Óige – Shorten Ghlas; the In sectionindividually 5.3.5 delete by “at preferendum atletter subsequentmust be recognised sections; by the elected at National Convention,Section one) aRegional Treasurer, elected the first meetingeach Annual of each Convention; • in sectionNational 5.5(c) Executive delete Committee Add to sectionor may 5.1.1: be “Aamong the five individually by preferendumConstituency at f) 10Group other and members each elected“through according the auspices to Rules of and the Constituencypersons Group who may get onto NECGroups each Annual Convention; Regional Groupby preferendum subsequent at each AnnualGeneral Procedures Secretary”; and in consultation amalgamateautomatically, with one or as a result ofProposer: NECf) 10 other members electedto Convention” Convention and substitute so that [delete: • “ofin sectionwith 5.5(h) the relevant amend Regional more Constituencytheir officer Groups positions in within the by preferendum at each Annual“annually”. the 15 members there will be”]“Chair Groupof National where Council one exists. The adjacent constituencies.Party (Leader, Deputy The Leader,Delete sectionsConvention 5.2.1 to so 5.2.7 that of the 15 i) of the 15 members thereand theminimum General membershipSecretary” must be National ExecutiveChairperson, Committee Treasurer, Younginclusive andmembers substitute: there will be: Explanationwill be at least one member ofto “and10 Chair paid-up of National members. may amalgamateGreens rep).Constituency i) at least one member ofThis the allowsthe Groups Parliamentary to elect Party and notCouncil”; Groups for adjacentThis situation is problematic• “5.2.1 RegionalParliamentary Groups Party may and nottheir delegatesmore than at any three point of • in the passageRationale: following The definition of a constituenciesas a) inif itthe considers last two NEC be formedmore where than threethere is a the year. ii) of the 15 members sectionConstituency 5.6(e)(iii) delete Group “the was defined that this willelections, lead to increasedwe had problems perceivedii) regional at least onefocus local for there will be at least one localGeneral ad Secretary 10 members and”; was ratified activity.” filling our regional quotas ofco-ordinated two government activity, representative either Motion governmentG – Add Two representative • in sectionat a 5.6.2time when replace the “the party had from some regions b) a region’sby unanimousiii) at leastagreement two members Members iii) to of Policy the 10 members Generalit’s Secretary largest membership.At between this Explanation:quota can be filled by two of the Constituencyresident in each Groups EU constituency elected at Convention theremeetings time of membership the National has fallen The way thisParty can officers, happen atwithout the anyonein a regioncovered or by by decision the Party. Steeringwill Committee be at least one member Executiveand Committee”the number requiredby for moment isfrom unclear. that region being actuallyof the NationalIf the above Executive conditions andElected resident by National in each EU constituency“Party astaff”; Constituency Group should elected at Annual Convention.Committee.gender balance cannot bothCouncil covered by the Party. • in sectionreflect 5.7.3(d) this fact. replace Motion C –In Alloworder to address this, •the 5.2.2 Thebe satisfieddecision-making by the candidates If the above conditions and“General Secretary” by the NECNEC to Conveneis proposing two changes,structure available, of a Regional additional membersProposer: gender NEC balance cannot both “staff”. outlined below. First of all, fromGroup shallwill be be selected decided to achieve be satisfied by the candidates• In section 9.6.7 delete Constituencynow on each Groups region will only bybe a Generalgender Meeting balance. of In this eventIn section available, 5.3.6 delete additional “and members“drafted by the General Proposer: automaticallyNEC entitled to onemembers the in next the highest region whoranking malesthe Party willChairperson” be selected to achieve Secretary and”. member of NEC. However, thishave votingor females rights in according the preferendum and substitutegender “the balance. Party In this event Add 5.1.5: “Theautomatic National position must cometo Sectionwill 4.4.be elected. It shall be Failing thisChairperson, the the nextand twohighest members ranking malesExplanation Executive fromCommittee among has the theten individualssubject National to approval Executive by the Committee elected byor National females Council.”in the preferendumAs the Party no longer has right to conveneelected a at meeting Annual ofConvention. National will Council co-opt except members in to achieve will be elected. Failing thisa the General Secretary these any ConstituencyAs such, Groupthe Party by officer the casegender of an balance.organisation Explanation:National The Policy Executive Committeeprovisions are inoperable. If notifying allpositions members will on not the count towardsoutside theMeetings Republic shall of be attendedSteering Committeewill co-opt membersalready to achievethe Party is able to employ a records maintainedfilling a regions by the automatic Ireland inrecognised a non-voting by capacity byhas severalgender non-voting balance. General Secretary in future national party.”position. [This will be the Nationalthe General Executive Secretary and membersthe whoMeetings assist shallin its be attendedthe NEC will have power 5.1.4 if Item 7 is passed.] Committee as having work. This would allow two of under the amended 5.5(a) Regional Group status in the them to be voting members. to appoint one and allocate Explanation Party. The gender balance rule appropriate functions to them.

Page 6 | ConventionPage 6 | 2015Convention 2013 facebook.com/GreenPartyireland @greenparty_ie greenparty.ie However, giving the General Motion L – Remove Motion N - Change the Secretary voting rights at Explanation Obsolete Provisions names of the “National the Management Committee This reflects current procedure About Ending of NEC Council” and “NEC” to would require a subsequent by chairpersons and provides a Terms of Office be more indicative of constitutional amendment. way of objecting. Proposer: NEC their functions Motion I – Clarify Motion K – Change Proposer: Dun Laoghaire Distinction between Reference to In the passage following section Greens 7.5(l), delete Appeals Panel and ‘Convention Delegates’ Throughout the Constitution, Appeals Committee to ‘All Members’ • “or until the conclusion the name ‘National Council’ of the following Annual would be replaced by “Policy Proposer: NEC Proposer: NEC Convention where elected and Rules Committee” for 2 years; with the and “National Executive • In section 5.9.1 amend “The Delete 7.3 and 7.4 and exception that those Committee” would be replaced Appeals Tribunal” to “The substitute: members of the National by “Executive Committee”. members of an Appeals Executive Committee Tribunal”; • “7.3 At all Conventions, all elected other than by Explanation • In section 5.9.3, section paid-up members of the Convention shall remain in The functions of these two 5.9.4, and section 5.9.5 Party shall be entitled to office until such elections committees is not clear from amend “The Appeals attend, speak and vote, are held, or for one month their titles and it can take years Committee” to “An Appeals except as specified in after Convention, whichever to realise what they are, unless Tribunal”. section 7.4. period is the shorter.” one enquires. • “7.4 If the National Executive Explanation: Committee considers that Explanation In particular: This reflects what has the number of members of These provisions referred to • The word “National” is always been the practice as the Party has grown to such members elected for 2 years superfluous because the Constitution as drafted an extent that Conventions and delegates from Regional (a) it is a word normally appeared to be unworkable. organised under section Councils and from groups of reserved for State bodies, 7.3 are not practicable, the public representatives, and countrywide businesses Motion J – Align National Council shall adopt should have been deleted when and the like, (b) within the Consensus Decision- Rules and Procedures for these positions were abolished. Party, party-wide is, in Conventions to be held our view, implied unless Making With What on a delegate basis, with Motion M – Allow qualified by, say, “Branch” Actually Happens Regional Groups and/or NEC to Convene a and (c) we are an all-Island Constituency Groups and/ party. Proposer: NEC or Local Groups being Selection Convention • There should be good represented proportionally. if Constituency Group reason if one group is Amend section 6.1.1 to read: The number of members for Does Not to be identified as a “In circumstances where, in the purpose of establishing different type from the the view of the chairperson, all the ratio of delegates shall Proposer: NEC other, i.e. “Council” versus reasonable efforts to achieve exclude members in their “Committee”. consensus have failed and probationary period. The Add to section 9.1: “The • It is important that “Policy” the time available for debate decision of the National National Executive Committee or “Policy and Rules” is is exhausted, the chairperson Council on the issue of may call a Selection Convention included in the title of may put the matter to a proportionality shall be final if it considers that the Local what is currently National vote. Upon the chairperson and binding.” Group or Constituency Group is Council. announcing a decision to unduly delaying doing so.” do so, any member entitled Explanation to vote at the meeting may At present, by a long-standing Explanation Non technical request that a procedural decision of National Council, This is to cater for situations vote be taken to overturn the all members are deemed to be where Constituency Groups motions chairperson’s decision; in which delegates. This amendment may be inactive. case the procedural vote will makes the present situation continue be held immediately without easier to understand, while discussion.” allowing change in the future. overleaf...

Delete section 6.1.5 and re- number 6.1.6 as 6.1.5.

Convention 2015 | Page 7 NonTechnical technical Motions motions

Motion 1 – Rainwater Explanation The development of public “That Convention calls on the Harvesting Systems Cllr Mark Dearey, has been banking in Ireland will require Minister for the Environment, working with the SBFIC to significant primary legislation Communities and Local Proposer: MotionDublin South A – West Regionaltry and realise the goal of to be successful, and it will also Government to tackle the Quotas for NEC establishingNOTE: a network If passed of local at Convention need broad-based Chair (or in political his/her absenceunder-use in anda non-voting hoarding capacityof by The Green Party will require public banks2013, in Ireland.this amendment wouldsupport. Discussionsthe Deputy Chair) have of Nationalderelict landthe byGeneral the state, Secretary semi- and the rainwater harvestingElections systems A regionalimmediately bank significantly apply to the already beenCouncil. initiated with the state andChair private (or sectorsin his/her by absence in all new developments so increases electionthe financial of the new NEC atCentral BankProposed as a first new step text in with reformingthe the Deputy Derelict Chair) Sites of Act National that countyProposer: councils NECmust resilience Conventionof local economies, 2013. what will haveamendments to be a rigorous in bold. to make availableCouncil. such lands for include the standard BS 8525, as lending is carried out regulatory5.6 approval National process. Executive self-build and other forms of in their developmentExplanation: plans and exclusivelyCurrent within Textthe region To makeCommittee public banking Composition affordableMotion housing” B – Number so comply withThe the NEC Regional wish to proposeand a any interest5.6 National or profit Executive work, a reliableThe National institutional Executive required to constitute a Planning Guidelines.change to the manner in whichearned is retainedCommittee locally, Composition with trusteeshipCommittee needs to shallbe found, comprise: Motion Constituency4 – Amend the Group This measureit is elected. will promote As the process those profitsThe then National directed Executive and any attemptsa) the Partyby political Leader; Constitution to Prevent water conservation,currently stands, save each NECtowards furtherCommittee local shalllending comprise: agents to appropriateb) the Deputy the Leader; idea Proposer: Limerick money formust residents be comprised and of at leastor retained a) as the core Party capital. Leader; need to be resisted.c) the Cathaoirleach; There is the Privatisation“We call on the of Green Party to reduce rainwatertwo persons run-off from which each of Lendingthe wouldb) the be concentratedDeputy Leader; also the imperatived) a representative to ensure selectedPublic Waterreduce the number required to contributesfive to flooding.regions (based on thein EU the domesticc) the and Cathaoirleach; small that whateverin advance new banking of each Annual constitute a Constituency Group constituencies: Dublin, East,business sector,d) a representative with larger selectedsystem evolvesConvention is compatible by the Young GreensProposer: from Dublin 10 toWest 5 as Greens defined within ExplanationSouth, North-West, Northernloans approvedin advance than ofthose each Annualwith existing,/ Óige small Ghlas scale; our party constitution.” Passing thisIreland). motion These will enable two persons typically can providedConvention by the by the credit Young Greenscommunity e)savings a Treasurer, entities, elected The Green Party5.1.1 A / ComhaontasConstituency Group and inspirecome the party’s from the county ten members unions, but/ Óige smaller Ghlas than; the such as creditindividually unions. by Before preferendum Glas at reiteratesmust be its recognised call for a by the councillorselected to follow at Nationalthe lead ofConvention, typical lendinge) a of Treasurer, existing elected any of thiseach happens, Annual however, Convention; referendumNational to amend Executive the Committee Green Partyor Cllrmay Francis be among Duffy’s the five commercial individually banks. by preferenduma piece at of appliedf) 10 other research members electedConstitution according to prevent to Rules the and who successfullypersons proposedwho get onto this NEC A publiceach bank Annual is a financial Convention; identifyingby a preferendumplace in the market at each Annualprivatization Procedures of public and water in consultation motion in Southautomatically, Dublin County as a result ofinstitution whichf) 10 otheris publicly members electedfor public Conventionsavings banks so that needs [delete: and “of water with supply the servicesrelevant Regional in Council whichtheir has officer now includedpositions withinheld inthe trustby bypreferendum a statutory at each Annualto be completed,the 15 members followed by there willIreland. be”] TheGroup Green where Party one is exists. The this standardParty in (Leader,its draft Deputy Leader,regional institutionConvention (for so that of the 15support fromi) ofthe the Attorney 15 members therecommitted minimum to working membership towards must be developmentChairperson, plan. Treasurer, Younginstance amembers Municipal there or Local will be: General’s willoffice be in at identifying least one member a this of goal during10 paid-up the lifetimemembers. of Greens rep). Authority). Iti) has at least stakeholders one member oflegislative the the pathway. Parliamentary Party andthe not next Oireachtas. Motion 2 –This Local situation Public is problematic not shareholders, Parliamentary and a Party public and not The questionmore than before three Ireland Rationale: The definition of a Bankingas a) in the last two NEC mandate canmore be than specified three to now is: whatii) should of the fill15 the members Motion Constituency5 – Ireland Group was defined elections, we had problemslegally compelii) atthe least bank one to local space leftthere by the will crisis be atand least one localshould adImplement 10 members thewas ratified Proposer: fillingLouth Greensour regional quotasapportion of two governmentsome profits representative to public the withdrawalgovernment of several representative at a time when the party had from some regions b) a region’sprojects. Withiii) noat leastobligations two members commercial iii)banks of the from 10 membersthe EU Receptionit’s largest Directive membership.At this The Greenquota Party can supports be filled the by twoto shareholders,resident dividends in each EU are constituency market? Clearlyelected the at Conventionprevious thereProposer: time Mayo membership Greens has fallen proposal fromParty the officers, Savings without Bank anyonenot paid andcovered resources by the are Party. banking model,will be dominated at least one by member a and the number required for Foundationfrom for Internationalthat region being actuallyinstead channelledIf the above into buildingconditions andsmall numberresident of high-lending in each EU constituency The Green a ConstituencyParty calls for Group should Co-operationelected (SBFIC), at Annual to Convention.capacity withingender individual balance cannot bothcommercial covered banks, by failed the Party. and Ireland toreflect sign up this to thefact. EU establish a networkIn order ofto Localaddress this, businessthe borrowers.be satisfied This by the candidatesis still failing.If Anthe opportunity above conditions and‘Reception Directive’ in order Public BanksNEC in is Ireland. proposing two changes,greatly improvesavailable, the additional quality of members exists to recreategender balance the banking cannot boththat the present arbitrary and We furtheroutlined urge thebelow. First of all,lending, from andwill the be managementselected to achieve sector in Ireland,be satisfied one whichby the candidatesinhumane accommodation of Governmentnow to on provide each region the will onlycapacity be ofgender the SME balance. sector In this eventworks for available,communities additional and membersasylum seekers by this State necessaryautomatically resources to entitled allow a to onemore generally.the next highest ranking malessmall and willmedium be selected sized to achieve may be legislatively outlawed detailed Businessmember Plan of NEC. of a However, new thisPublic bankor females lending in is the a preferendumenterprises. gender We believe balance. that In this eventand a equitable fair system Local Publicautomatic Banking position system must comeproven concept,will be elected.and it works Failing thisthe the public the banking next highest model whichranking malesimplemented. to be drawnfrom up inamong co-operation the ten individuals well in countriesNational where Executive it Committeehas workedor forfemales over in200 the years preferendum with the SBFIC.elected Convention at Annual Convention.already exists.will co-opt In the members German to achievein Germany will can be fillelected. the gap Failing thisMotion the 6 – Site Value urges the GovernmentAs such, the Party to officer context, wheregender both balance. public that existsNational in Irish Executivebanking at Committee Tax facilitate thepositions drawing will up not of count towardsbanks and commercialMeetings shall banks be attendedpresent. will co-opt members to achieve the necessaryfilling establishing a regions automatic operate, Sparkassenin a non-voting banks capacity by gender balance. Proposer: UCC Young Greens legislationposition. to allow these new are more efficientthe General and Secretary more and Motionthe 3 Meetings– Reform shall of be attended banks to be set up as soon as commercially successful the Derelict Sites Act The Green Party / Comhaontas possible. than their private commercial Glas calls for the immediate competitors. Proposer: Dublin Central Greens reform of the property tax and

Page 8 | ConventionPage 6 | 2015Convention 2013 facebook.com/GreenPartyireland @greenparty_ie greenparty.ie commercial rates, transforming Motion 9 - The deregulatory treaty on the floor if Motion 10 is passed. from the current faulty system Transatlantic Trade and taxpayers, SMEs and to a coherent site value tax. Investment Partnership ordinary workers here in Motion 12 – Legislation (TTIP) Europe and in the United Regulating Abortion States. Motion 7 – Mandatory in the Event that the Green Infrastructure Proposer: Brussels Greens The Green Party: • Rejects the inclusion of 8th Amendment is Proposer: Dun Laoghaire • Noting with dismay that the Investor-State Dispute Repealed Greens freedom of information Settlement Mechanism in requests have shown any final agreement; Proposer: UCC Young Greens “The Green Party supports that 92% of preparatory • Demands full transparency mandatory green meetings the European on all chapters of the That upon the repeal of the infrastructure planning to Commission has conducted agreement for all levels of 8th amendment the Green be integrated into traditional in the run-up to EU-US national, regional and local Party will advocate legislation planning and implemented in all trade talks were with government that the trade allowing for the lawful urban and rural development”. corporate lobbyists, deal will impact; termination of pregnancies dooming negotiations • Urges the rejection of the in cases of fatal foetal Explanation from the start to corporate TTIP agreement should abnormality, rape, incest and Green infrastructure is an capture; the final treaty include endangerment to the health of interconnected network of • Noting that the concerns significant compromises the mother green space that conserves the of ordinary citizens, trade on the EU standards for natural ecosystem and assists unions, environmental, environmental protection, Explanation in the loss of biodiversity. health and safety groups labour protections and other This motion will only be put to There is a need to proactively have been all but ignored; select areas of economic the floor if Motion 11 is passed develop green infrastructure • Believing that the minor interest; which both enhances trade benefits do not Motion 13 – Funding of biodiversity and improves warrant the huge risk to EU Motion 10 – Support for the Health Service resilience to climate change. and Irish labour standards a referendum on the This approach has to be and environmental Proposer: Carlow Kilkenny incorporated into the planning regulations; 8th Amendment Greens process so that it actively • Noting with pride that Proposer: Dublin Young Greens promotes and conserves green Ireland is one of the only The Green Party strongly spaces, in both urban and rural EU countries that does not The Green Party supports disagrees with other party’s development. currently avail of investor- the holding of a referendum who prioritise tax cuts over to-state dispute settlement, to allow the people of Ireland solving the crisis in the Health Motion 8 – Creation a mechanism that could determine whether or not the Service. The Green Party will of a Public Liability allow foreign corporations 8th Amendment should be campaign for an increase in to sue our government if repealed. the staffing levels in the health Insurance Scheme it passes new laws that service to abate the crisis. Proposer: Galway Greens impacted on their profits; Motion 11 – Support • Noting the threat posed for a Yes Vote in any Motion 14 – Tax Rebate “That the Green Party supports to European farmers and on Gas Oil the drawing up of legislation consumers by any watering Referendum on the that creates a public liability down of prohibitions on Repeal of the 8th Proposer: Dublin South Central scheme similar to the ACC unsustainable and unhealthy Amendment (Accident Compensation agricultural practices, The Green Party/Comhaontas Corporation) in New Zealand”. including hormone and Proposer: Dublin Young Greens Glas supports a change to the antibiotic use in farming, legislation to consider replacing Explanation chlorination of chicken The Green Party will support a the marking of gas oil (Green/ The ACC provides carcasses, etc. vote in favour of repeal in the Red Diesel) with a tax rebate comprehensive, no-fault • Recognising with concern above proposed referendum to farmers and agricultural personal injury cover for all that even the European on the 8th amendment, on the contractors. New Zealand residents and Commission itself has condition that the Government visitors to New Zealand. acknowledged that TTIP is have provided draft legislation This would have potentially likely to bring “prolonged and which will be put in place if the far-reaching implications for substantial’ dislocation to referendum passes. various sectors including the European workers; medical/healthcare sector. • Mindful of the potentially Explanation: damaging effects of a This motion will only be put to

Convention 2015 | Page 9 Non technical motions (continued)

Motion 15Technical – Removal of Motions• To provide a focus for local territory of Ireland should be providing access to low Rent Allowance activities permitted only for humanitarian interest government loans • To enable community or United Nations approved for community and domestic Proposer: QUB Young Greens minded person to take the purposes. energy and first step on a community Foreign military seeking • c) That the Green Party That the Green Party representative role passage through Ireland / Comhaontas Glas are condemns the unjust The present district council bearing weapons for offensive gravely concerned at this enrichmentMotion and subsidy A – ofRegional electoral requirement is too purposes or transporting Governments lack of action private landlordsQuotas by meansfor NEC of large a step NOTE:for small If passed local at Conventioncaptured prisonersChair (or in should his/her be absence on Climatein a non-voting Change” capacity by the rent allowance scheme and participation2013, this amendment wouldsubject tothe specific Deputy approval Chair) of by National the General Secretary and the Elections supports measures to phase • To teachimmediately active civic apply to the both housesCouncil. of the Oireachtas Motion Chair20 – (or Self in his/her absence out the scheme in favour of participationelection of the new NEC aton a case Proposedby case basis. new text with Determinationthe Deputy for Chair) of National housing policiesProposer: that NEC do not • The postConvention to be unpaid 2013. except The currentamendments situation inin bold. Council. involve the payment of tax for vouched expense’s as Shannon airport5.6 National demands Executive that Kurds revenue toExplanation: private landlords per authorisedCurrent Textschedule spot checksCommittee be carried Composition out on Proposer:Motion QUB Young B –Greens Number and the necessaryThe NEC distortions wish to propose • aTo hold5.6 monthly National scheduled Executive all militaryThe assets National of foreign Executive required to constitute a of competitionchange in the to the rental manner in whichmeetings Committee locally and Composition be nations enteringCommittee Ireland. shall comprise:That the Green Party would market suchit is policies elected. cause. As the process servicedThe by National the district Executive a) the Party Leader; call on theConstituency Irish government Group to The Greencurrently Party instead stands, each NEC councilCommittee administration shall comprise:Motion 18b) – the Access Deputy Leader; recogniseProposer: the right Limerick to self- supports increasedmust be comprised social of at least• To act asa) thea support Party Leader; for to Publiclyc) theFunded Cathaoirleach; determination“We call of theon the Kurdish Green Party to housing andtwo implementing persons from rent each of thethe districtb) councilthe Deputy and Leader;to d) a representative selectedpeople. reduce the number required to controls. five regions (based on the EUencourage c) buythe Cathaoirleach;in to Co Schoolsin advance of each Annual constitute a Constituency Group constituencies: Dublin, East, Council structuresd) a representative selectedProposer: Convention Cork Greens by the Young GreensMotion from21 – 10 Liveable to 5 as defined within Motion 16South, – North-West, Northern• To havein a advance limited role of each Annual / Óige Ghlas; Streetsour party constitution.” ReestablishmentIreland). These of two persons canmainly Conventionin arts, culture, by the Young GreensThe Green Party:e) a Treasurer, elected 5.1.1 A Constituency Group come from the ten members environmental / Óige Ghlas maintenance,; • condemnsindividually discrimination by preferendum in Proposer: at must Dublin be Centralrecognised by the Town Councilselected at andNational Convention,tourism, economice) a Treasurer, activity, elected accesseach to publicly-funded Annual Convention; National Executive Committee creationor of may Rural be among the five communicationsindividually and by aspreferendum atschools onf) 10the other grounds members of electedThat in orderaccording to improve to Rules road and Communitypersons Councils who get onto NEC a two wayeach conduit Annual for Convention; the religion;by preferendum at each Annualsafety andProcedures make more and liveable in consultation automatically, as a result of district andf) 10 county other councilmembers elected• believes Convention that publicly- so that [delete:streets, “of thiswith Convention the relevant calls Regional Proposer: theirTipperary officer Greens positions within• To the have by each preferendum Rural at each Annualfunded the schools 15 members must meet there willon be”] all LocalGroup Authorities where one to exists. The Party (Leader, Deputy Leader,Community,Town Convention Council so that of the 15 the needsi) of allthe children, 15 members of thereintroduce minimum 30 kph speed membership limits must be The GreenChairperson, Party supports Treasurer, Younganchored members on a local there centre will be: all faithswill and be none; at least and one memberas of the default10 paid-up in urban members. areas the reestablishmentGreens rep). of “town of populationi) at least eg; Cahir, one member of• thedue to the Parliamentaryseparation of Party andapart not from National Roads and councils “andThis new situation rural is problematicFethard, Parliamentary Clonmel, Ck. Party on and not churchmore and state, than three believes it MotorwaysRationale: and calls The on definition the of a communityas councils a) in the onlast a two NEC Suir, Thurles,more than Borriseligh, three is not theii) role of theof a 15 publicly- members Minister forConstituency Transport, Group Sports was defined statutory basiselections, elected we had by poll problems Cloughjordanii) at leastNewport, one local fundedthere school will to bepromote at least one localand Tourismad 10 to membersupdate the was ratified from the registerfilling ourof electorsregional inquotas ofNenagh, two government Roscrea,Killenaule, representative any particulargovernment religion representative to its outdated atregulations a time when that the only party had each districtfrom council some arearegions to act b) a region’sBorrisokane iii) at , Cashel,least two members students.iii) of the 10 members allow suchit’s speed largest limits membership.At in areas this as a lower quotatier of can consultative be filled by two Ballyporeen,resident Ardfinnian, in each EU constituency elected at Convention therewhere thetime majority membership of vehicles has fallen communityParty engagement officers, and without anyoneClogheen, covered Mullinahone by the Party. Motion will19 – be Energy at least one and member do not currentlyand the exceed number this required for to provide froma participate that region role being for actuallyRearcross,Tempemore If the above conditions etc andClimate resident Change in each EU constituencyspeed, anda Constituencyfurthermore Groupcalls should small communities.elected at Annual Convention.etc gender balance cannot both covered by the Party. on him to reflectregulate this for fact. 20 kph In order to address this, Therethe are bemany satisfied communities by the candidates Proposer: DublinIf the aboveBay North conditions andpedestrian priority zones in ExplanationNEC is proposing two changes,who feel completelyavailable, additional removed members gender balance cannot bothresidential areas and make the The demiseoutlined of town below. councils First of all,from from the politicalwill be selected and council to achieve • a) “Thatbe the satisfied Green Party/by the candidatesmore powerful road user liable has left a gapnow in on community each region will onlyprocess be togender the detriment balance. of In the this eventComhaontas available, Glas additional are in membersby default for accidents unless representationautomatically and entitled to oneentire bodythe politic next highest ranking malesfavour willof the be optionselected of to achieveit can be clearly shown that the participationmember in local of activities NEC. However, this or females in the preferendumhaving genderan interconnector balance. In this eventvulnerable road user was at The newautomatic district councils position are must comeMotion 17will – be Foreign elected. Failing this thewith Germanythe next and highest the otherranking malesfault.” too large andfrom remote among from the tenthe individualsMilitary National Using Executive Irish CommitteeCountries or females that are in planning the preferendum local community:elected at Annual Convention. will co-opt members to achieveon 100%will renewable be elected. energy Failing this the • To provideAs such, a meet the and Party officer Sovereigngender Territory balance. and notNational nuclear Executive energy and Committee greet forpositions local activities will not andcount towardsProposer: ClareMeetings Greens shall be attended• b) Thatwill individual co-opt membersdomestic to achieve dignitariesfilling a regions automatic in a non-voting capacity by and communitygender balance. renewable • To enableposition. active The Greenthe Party/Comhaontas General Secretary and theenergy creationMeetings is shallto be be attended participation by interested Glas declares that foreign encouraged by provide no persons in a local military that enter or use obstacles’ to selling energy environment assets within the sovereign to the national grid and by

Page 10 | ConventionPage 6 | Convention 2015 2013 facebook.com/GreenPartyireland @greenparty_ie greenparty.ie Motion 22 – Renew the Republic Seanad; Motion 23 – Move • That the convention should begin its work in 2016 Responsibility for Food Proposer: Brussels Greens • That this convention should consist of selected academic experts, representative members of the Processing Sector • Recognising that 2016 is the centenary of the Easter public, a small and limited number of experienced Rising, and deploring that Ireland remains so far from to Department of politicians, and others as deemed appropriate; the social and political vision of the 1916 Proclamation; • That this process should seek throughout to be as Jobs, Enterprise and • Recognising that the faith of a strong majority of consultative, transparent and wide in it’s discourse Irish people in the political system has been severely Innovation as possible, and should seek to engage the entire damaged in the light of the economic collapse, and population in its deliberations; that this has in turn led to resistance to government • That this constitutional convention should Proposer: Galway Greens policy, as we have seen in the water charges protests; endeavour to complete it’s work within two and a “That the responsibility for • Recognising the failure of the Fine Gael-Labour half years; coalition to honour their commitments to political the food processing sector • That the aim of the convention are: reform; should be transferred from the • The assessment of the existing constitution • Recognising the good work performed by the Department of Agriculture, • The drafting of a replacement constitution constitutional convention, despite their severely • The consideration of new directive principles Food and the Marine to the limited remit and unsatisfactory lack of tangible for Irish society Department of Jobs, Enterprise outcomes, and the good work on political engagement • In-depth consideration and recommendations and political reform being done by civil society groups and Innovation. Governmental on the political system of the new constitution, such as the People’s Conversation, Second Republic, responsibility for primary food particularly the relationship between the etc., but also the need for this work to be translated producers (ie. farmers) should executive and legislative branches, the role into concrete policy; and powers of local government, the role and remain with the Department • Seeing that all political parties in the Republic of duties of elected representatives, and the of Agriculture, Food and the Ireland, established and nascent, are exhibiting a role of the electoral system in guaranteeing dearth of policies sufficient to restore the faith of the Marine”. democratic representation and good Irish people in their political system, to ensure that we governance; avoid the mistakes of the recent past and to realise • That nothing be off the table, outside of Ireland’s Motion 24 – Elections the opportunities, economic, social and environmental EU and international obligations – including of a world experiencing a period of accelerating and Elected the structure of the government and of the change; legislature, the role of head of state, the role of Representatives • Recognising that the 1937 Constitution, while local government, the containing items of worth is no longer fit for purpose, Proposer: Dublin Bay North • That this convention would produce a new having been submitted to over 40 amendments, Greens constitution to be put before the people in a the majority in the past four decades, and yet still popular vote; a) “That the Green Party / containing directives on social policy, the role of • Seek to advance it’s own vision of a second Irish Comhaontas Glas are in favourer women and blasphemy, and others that do not enjoy Republic, which would include but not be limited to: any significant level of support; of fairer elections making the • The enshrining of protection of the • Recognising that the Irish legislature in Dáil Éireann playing field more equal by environment in the constitution; is one of the weakest in western Europe, serving as a reducing expenditure, limiting • A strong legislature with significant rubber stamp for the executive branch, which utilises independence from the executive branch and posters to designated areas with it’s majority to dominate and control all aspects of its which would hold governments more properly the same space and quantity for work; accountable; • Recognising that Ireland needs a strong, independent each candidate, limiting printed • New parliamentary rules to avoid the use of parliament that will actually hold governments to materials also and advertising guillotining, to promote strong committees and account, whose members will engage in their work as in the papers and online to be more consensual drafting of legislation; national legislators as well as local representatives, • Change the way that government ministers provided equally to all candidates and where consensus and cooperation between report on the work of their departments with a photo bio, points of policy, government and opposition can produce stronger – ministers should not be responsible for legislation and better governance; links to website, contacts and every act of every civil servant under their • Acknowledging the positive example set by the social media”. jurisdiction, but should be obliged to release parliaments of Sweden, Switzerland, Italy, Germany b) “That the Green Party / all relevant information as demanded by and others in this regard, where strong committees, the legislature unless extreme extenuating Comhaontas Glas are in favour opposition input into legislation and more effective circumstances apply; of measures to bring new people parliamentary rules and procedures result in much • Local government with powers of local revenue stronger and more effective legislatures; into politics and prevent career raising and dramatically increased authority • Recognising also the extraordinarily weak position politicians by putting a limit of over areas such as education, planning, health, and basis of local government in Ireland, and the the amount of terms of office of policing and other local issues; deleterious effects this has on public policy; • A change of the electoral system to one elected reps.” • Recognising the precedent of renewal of republican better suited to delivering nationally minded c) “That the Green Party / principles through radical constitutional change, legislators; seek the reform of multi-seat such as that seen in post Soviet Eastern Europe and Comhaontas Glas election task constituencies for the national parliament elsewhere: force target seats well to ensure and the establishment of one single Irish best use of limited resource constituency for European elections, in line The Green Party will: with 22 other EU member states; that into count the votes from • Seek to renew the faith of the Irish people in the • An upper house that would represent civil the local elections and gender political system through its radical reconstruction and society, social partners and local government, the declaration of a Second Republic; balance, also that in certain and would have the power to amend legislation • Make the establishment of a Constitutional areas the option of running from the lower house. Convention to transform the constitution and declare multiple candidates should be • The possibility of a citizen initiated referendum, a Second Republic a priority during the next Dáil and along the lines of the Swiss model. explored”.

Convention 2015 | Page 11 You can make a difference

Hopefully this year’s convention will have convinced you that the Green Party has a vital role to play in the months and years ahead. We need as much help as possible with our mission to make Ireland a better, fairer, greener place for everybody - especially as we prepare to contest the approaching General Election. This is where you come in. Here are three simple things you can do to make a difference:

1. Donate today at greenparty.ie/donate or at one of our buckets over the weekend 2. Offer to help your General Election Candidate 3. Find and convince two people to join the party in the next 12 months.