The quick guide to Ireland political parties

What is your stance on abortion? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Pro-choice it should be a woman’s right to choose whether to have an...Source

Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, as long as they pass the same background checks as straight couples Current adoption law provides for the adoption of children by married couples or single persons – irrespective of their sexual orientation – but not by unmarried couples or civil partners. Mr Shatter said he was in discussion with Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald over whether proposals to allow for civil partners will end up in the Children and Family Relationships Bill, or in a separate piece of legislation. While the measure may prove controversial in some quarters, the Minister said the legislation – likely to become law next year – has the full support of Fine Gael and Labour.Source

Do you support the legalisation of same sex marriage? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Source

Should terminally ill patients be allowed to end their lives via assisted suicide? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No According to Mr Neville, if euthanasia becomes acceptable under any circumstances, the boundaries of what is considered lawful killing would be stretched even wider. Mr Neville believes that this has happened elsewhere. “Where euthanasia and assisted suicide have been liberalised there is a blurring between voluntary and involuntary euthanasia. In the Netherlands there are cases of ending life of patients with a mental handicap and with dementia. The ‘slippery slope’ is on the way to involuntary euthanasia for social reasons. It is possible that the elderly (especially those who are elderly and rich) become dispensable,” he said.Source

Do you support the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should businesses be required to have women on their board of directors? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the military allow women to serve in combat roles? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes I particularly welcome the commitment to double the number of women in our Defence Forces. Minister Coveney has mentioned the potential for Ireland to become more involved in dealing with gender based violence which, unfortunately, is a more prevalent issue in some of the places where are peacekeeping forces are at work. In this sensitive area, the importance of having female Defence Force members cannot be understated.Source

Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in athletic events? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should women be allowed to wear a Niqāb, or face veil, to civic ceremonies? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the government increase funding for mental health research and treatment? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should Ireland adopt a public healthcare system similar to the NHS in Britain? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes We are committed to ending the two tier health system that exists in this country. We will deliver Universal Health Care by creating a new National Community Health Service – a public primary care system where access is free to...Source

Should there be more or less privatisation of hospital and healthcare services? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Less Source

Do you support a single-payer healthcare system? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Do you support the legalisation of Marijuana? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, but only for medical use Reilly said Ireland should follow the example of Britain, which last month gave approval to a new cannabis-based drug, Sativex, which helps patients with MS and...Source

Should cities open drug “safe havens” where people who are addicted to illegal drugs can use them under the supervision of medical professionals? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase spending on public transportation? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government require children to be vaccinated for preventable diseases? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Fine Gael Cork based Senator, Tim Lombard, has called for the Meningitis B vaccine programme, introduced in October 2016, to be back-dated to allow for a catch up scheme for all children. Lombard raised the issue with Minister of State in the Department of Health, Catherine Byrne TD in the Seanad this week. The Meningitis B vaccine programme introduced by my Fine Gael colleague and Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, in October last year was a great incentive for families to ensure their children are vaccinated. We are all aware of the dangers of Meningitis B and it is a critical investment in our future to immunise against it.Source

Do you support the use of nuclear energy? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Fine Gael leader, Mr Enda Kenny has called on the government to declare immediate and unconditional "war" on the British nuclear...Source

Should the Irish language remain a compulsory subject on the national curriculum? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Fine Gael has previously supported a policy making Irish optional in the Leaving Cert in the past, with the proposal previously being mooted in the Fine Gael manifesto prior to the last...Source

Should the UK abolish university tuition fees? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, but the Student Maintenance Grant and Assistant Fund should be higher. Fine Gael will pledge to introduce a student loan scheme for third-level education if the party is returned to...Source

Should girls be allowed to wear the niqab or burka in Catholic Schools? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Source

Should the free tuition fees scheme be available to foreign students? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Source

Should the government be able to monitor phone calls and emails? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Do you support a united Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Fine Gael is a united Ireland party and that remains an objective," he...Source

Are you in favour of decriminalising drug use? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, for most but not all drugs Source

Should the government pass laws which protect whistleblowers? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes The key parts of the Bill address the problem of investigators from the Garda Síochána being snowed under with masses of documentation. We can all remember the boxes of files that were taken from Anglo Irish Bank headquarters a couple of years ago. Some files were not released on demand at the time, but this Bill will address that problem. The Bill also allows for investigators to work in a more efficient manner. The smart economy is about dealing with things much more efficiently. The Bill also takes into account the experiences of investigators in their efforts to pursue white collar crime. Practical experience gets practical results. I welcome the fact that the Minister took the time, in his relatively short period in office, to listen to the investigators who are being hindered in their pursuit of white collar criminals. To assist in the implementation of this Bill, it is necessary that we bring forward some whistleblower legislation. This will encourage people to bring forward information on their own companies, so that those who are participating in white collar crime can be quickly brought to court.Source

Should the Seanad be a wholly elected body? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the power-sharing provincial government be restored in Northern Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes I hope that by the end of June there will again be a power-sharing Executive in Northern Ireland which can directly engage in the UK wide processes relating to Brexit and work in partnership with Dublin through the North-South Ministerial...Source

Should it be illegal to burn our national flag? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government regulate social media sites, as a means to prevent fake news and misinformation? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should there be term limits set for members of Congress? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should elected Members of Parliament in Northern Ireland be able to sit and participate in the Dáil? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, but there should be a representative role for Irish citizens living abroad and in Northern Ireland in a reformed Seanad. Another positive aspect of this proposed change is that it would also allow graduates living abroad to have their say in the Oireachtas. There are a growing number of people from all educational backgrounds who have emigrated but would like to be connected to Ireland in some way, many of these people will return here and it is important that their voices’ be heard.Source

Should the government ban gambling? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Source

Should social media companies ban political advertising? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should the government increase environmental regulations on businesses to reduce carbon emissions? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, and the current government is over-regulating businesses Source

Should disposable products (such as plastic cups, plates, and cutlery) that contain less than 50% of biodegradable material be banned? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should researchers be allowed to use animals in testing the safety of drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and cosmetics? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Do you support the use of hydraulic fracking to extract oil and natural gas resources? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, we should pursue more sustainable energy resources instead Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim Tony McLoughlin’s Private Members Bill to ban fracking has been unanimously supported by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Climate Action and Environment in a report released this week. Deputy McLoughlin said: “We are now one step closer to having an outright ban on fracking- the extraction and exploration of onshore shale gas and petroleum- in this country.Source

Do you support the practice of hunting foxes with dogs? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Do you support the use of genetically engineered crops and foods? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No Source

Should cities be allowed to offer private companies economic incentives to relocate? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should employers be required to pay men and women the same salary for the same job? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, there are too many other variables such as education, experience, and tenure that determine a fair salary Source

Should funding for social housing be increased? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise taxes on the rich? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Lower the income tax rate and remove all existing tax loopholes for large corporations Fine Gael will radically reduce income taxes if re-elected to Government in order to make Ireland a low-tax economy, Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said. Mr Kenny said rates of personal taxation in Ireland are too high in comparison to the United Kingdom and other countries and again repeated his pledge that the Universal Social Charge will be abolished in its entirety.Source

Should water charges be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, but penalties should be levied on those who waste water. Fine Gael has confirmed it is unlikely to support the final report of the Oireachtas committee on water charges. This follows the party’s failure to change several of the key recommendations contained in the report. The party lost a number of attempts to introduce a charge for excessive use of water.Source

Should bankers’ bonuses be capped at 100% of their pay? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, and lower the cap to 20% Source

Should the government raise the federal minimum wage? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Fine Gael Dublin South Central, TD Catherine Byrne, has said that the proposed rise in the minimum wage will help remove welfare traps and is in line with Fine Gael’s plans to make work pay more than welfare. Deputy Byrne was speaking after the launch of the Low Pay Commission report which recommends increasing the minimum wage to €9.15 per hour. Working is the best way out of poverty and Fine Gael wants to do everything possible to remove welfare traps and encourage people on long terms jobseekers’ benefit back to work.Source

Should the government abolish the inheritance tax? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No, but increase the tax-free allowance Mr Kenny's plan to drastically increase the inheritance tax threshold from €280,000 to €500,000 over the lifetime of the next government will be set out in Fine Gael's election...Source

Should the government raise or lower the tax rate for corporations? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Maintain the current rate The Dublin government's minister for public expenditure Paschal Donohoe said Ireland would be looking to other countries with similar tax regimes to help fight any potential clampdown led by Germany and other EU big guns. Even though the UK will be leaving, the rationale for our corporation tax regime hasn't changed," Mr Donohoe said. We've always been very clear that we have this particular system in place, which is transparent to offset other disadvantages that our economy has, not least the fact that we are a small, open economy but not part of the continent of Europe.Source

Should there be fewer or more restrictions on current welfare benefits? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: More Source

Should welfare recipients be tested for drugs? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the government make cuts to public spending in order to reduce the national debt? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government use economic stimulus to aid the country during times of recession? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, the government should intervene to boost a recovery Mr Noonan has said there will be €12 billion available over the lifetime of the next government and Fine Gael will split this so-called “fiscal space” between spending increases and tax cuts on a 70:30...Source

Do you support a universal basic income program? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Do you believe labor unions help or hurt the economy? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Hurt, I support some private unions but am strongly against public unions Source

Should pension payments be increased for retired government workers? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government provide tax incentives to private companies to keep jobs within the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should VAT rates be increased or decreased? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Decrease, to provide economic growth Fine Gael TD for Louth, Peter Fitzpatrick, has said that growth in the hotel and guesthouses market in Louth comes as a result of hard work and local entrepreneurship, as well as some essential Government measures such as the reduction in the VAT rate and the abolition of the travel tax. The latest quarterly barometer from the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) shows that business is growing for hotels and guesthouse in Louth for the first six months of the year. This growth is a result of extremely hard work from local business people boosted by the reduction in the VAT rate and the abolition of the travel tax.Source

Should citizens be allowed to save or invest their money in offshore bank accounts? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government add or increase tariffs on products imported into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Do you support the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton, and Fine Gael MEP for Ireland South, Sean Kelly, have said that the EU-US trade deal known as the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Agreement (TTIP) offers massive opportunities for the Irish economy. They were speaking at a TTIP information seminar, organised by Mr Kelly today (Tuesday) in Dublin.Source

Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the government break up Amazon, Facebook and Google? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should Muslim immigrants be banned from entering the country until the government improves its ability to screen out potential terrorists? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should there be a temporary ban on all immigration into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should immigrants be required to learn English? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the EU impose a quota of migrants per country? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should immigrants be required to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate a basic understanding of our country’s language, history, and government? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government provide welfare benefits to foreigners? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Source

Should immigrants be allowed to hold dual citizenship status? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase or decrease the amount of temporary work visas given to high-skilled immigrant workers? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Increase Source

Should the children of migrants who live in French territories be allowed to join their families? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should politicians be required to wait until the age of 65 to receive a pension? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: Yes Source

Should a politician, who has been formerly convicted of a crime, be allowed to run for office? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the minimum voting age be lowered? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes, but only for local and Presidential elections. Fine Gael will reduce the voting age to 17 and give eligible citizens the right to vote at Irish embassies in the Presidential election. If this experiment is deemed a success Fine Gael will consider extending this practice to general...Source

Should corporations, unions, and non-profit organizations be allowed to donate to political parties? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: No As part of the political reform measures we have already increased Dáil sitting days, made changes to increase the number of female politicians, effectively abolished corporate donations and we’ve implemented major reforms to local government. The abolition of the Seanad and the improvement to the Committee system is part of this overall reform to make our government work more effectively and efficiently for us.Source

Should Irish citizens, living abroad and in Northern Ireland, have the right to vote in presidential elections? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes Speaking in Philadelphia, Enda Kenny said the proposed change, which will also apply to those living in Northern Ireland, will mark a “historic recognition of the strong and enduring links between Ireland and all our citizens, wherever they are in the world. Today’s announcement is a profound recognition of the importance that Ireland attaches to all of our citizens, wherever they may be. It is an opportunity for us to make our country stronger by allowing all of our citizens resident outside the State, including our emigrants, to vote in future presidential elections,” the Taoiseach said.Source

Should foreigners, currently residing in the United States, have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: EU citizens should have the right to vote in local and european elections, UK citizens have should have the right to vote in all elections and non-EU citizens shoukd have the right to vote in local elections. Irish citizens may vote at every election and referendum; British citizens may vote at Dáil elections, European elections and local elections; Other European Union (EU) citizens may vote at European and local elections* Non-EU citizens may vote at local elections only.Source

Should the Seanad be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes In July 2009 at the MacGill Summer School, Enda Kenny announced that Fine Gael was embarking on a root and branch analysis of the political system. As part of that analysis, Fine Gael looked in detail at the role of the Seanad and came to the clear conclusion that reforming it was not realistic or achievable. The key difficulty with all of the proposals for reform is that they take the existence of the Seanad, with its widely-acknowledged flaws, as a given. It would either remain an unrepresentative elitist composition or a directly elected entity that would seek to duplicate the Dail. Instead, the correct approach is to start by asking whether we need a second House at all and Fine Gael doesn’t believe so.Source

Should the number of elected representatives be reduced? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should drug traffickers receive the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should the government hire private companies to run prisons? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should repeat offenders be entitled to free legal aid? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should convicted criminals have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

Should non-violent prisoners be released from jail in order to reduce overcrowding? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael’s answer: Yes A spokesperson for Ms Fitzgerald said: "The minister is strongly of the view that greater remission must be earned and the central consideration when deciding whether or not to grant enhanced remission is the extent to which prisoners are less likely to re-offend and better able to reintegrate into society."Source

Should laptops be banned on all direct flights departing from the Middle East? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should France continue to assassinate suspected terrorists in foreign countries? ^{stats discuss}

Fine Gael voters: No Source

What is your stance on abortion? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Pro-life, but allow in cases of rape, incest, or danger to the mother or child "The party allowed a free vote on the...Source

Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes We welcome the fact that this legislation is designed to take account of the growing complexity and diversity of modern families. We welcome the important changes to the laws on adoption, custody and assisted human reproduction. Whereas existing laws state that only married couples or sole applicants can seek to adopt a child, this legislation will extended the right to adopt to same-sex civil partners. It also allows cohabiting couples who have been living together for three years in a committed relationship to adopt children jointly.Source

Do you support the legalisation of same sex marriage? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil’s position on this referendum is clear and unequivocal. We believe that extending the right to marry to same sex couples is a basic matter of fairness. It is an important reaffirmation of the positive role of marriage in our society. It is a further step forward in the task of building a republic which recognises and supports the rights of all of its citizens.Source

Should terminally ill patients be allowed to end their lives via assisted suicide? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Source

Do you support the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No The new Government are determined to embark on a major programme of civil and criminal law reform and to change procedures, where necessary, and to ensure that this is done at a reasonable pace. The process of codifying the criminal law will be started, and new laws, removing the death penalty; changing the libel laws; and governing telephone tapping will be introduced.Source

Should businesses be required to have women on their board of directors? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes We will improve equal gender representation at upper management levels of the public service and continue to works towards gender representation targets in state board...Source

Should the military allow women to serve in combat roles? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in athletic events? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should women be allowed to wear a Niqāb, or face veil, to civic ceremonies? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should the government increase funding for mental health research and treatment? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should Ireland adopt a public healthcare system similar to the NHS in Britain? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Fianna Fáil believes in a strong public health system with quality services as close to people as is possible. We believe a tax-funded system is more progressive as it allows the state more control over the overall health care bill. By contrast, a system of compulsory health insurance as proposed by government does not improve services for patients and it will actually introduce new charges. UHI would increase administrators in the health service and would put the future of smaller hospitals in the hands of the insurers. Fianna Fail believes that we need to provide more resources for healthcare. There needs to be extra beds provided so that constant overcrowding in Emergency departments can be controlled. We also need to employ more nurses and midwives.Source

Should there be more or less privatisation of hospital and healthcare services? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Less Fianna Fáil believes in a publicly funded, publicly delivered health care service, one that emphasises patient care above...Source

Do you support a single-payer healthcare system? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Do you support the legalisation of Marijuana? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No People should be careful about what they say, in particular people in public life giving the impression that cannabis is fine and it won’t do you any harm. Every drug will do you harm if it is abused and that is the reality of...Source

Should cities open drug “safe havens” where people who are addicted to illegal drugs can use them under the supervision of medical professionals? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase spending on public transportation? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government require children to be vaccinated for preventable diseases? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil TD Jack Chambers has said the agreement reached between the IMO & Department of Health to introduce the Meningitis B and Rotavirus vaccinations beginning December 1st, is good news for newborns and their parents. The Department has agreed to provide GPs with an additional €80 a year for administering the two new vaccines in addition to the existing schedule of vaccines.Source

Do you support the use of nuclear energy? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Ireland needs to robustly defend its interests here. We cannot stand aside and watch Britain potentially build another harmful nuclear power plant, which could have a devastating environmental impact on the Irish Sea and on the Irish East...Source

Should the Irish language remain a compulsory subject on the national curriculum? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes An Ireland for All even tries gamely to put some actual figures on the value of our “immeasurable treasure”. The implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish language, for example, is worth about €3 million a year, a substantial increase on current – woefully inadequate – funding. The education section of the policy begins with the claim that Fianna Fáil would “ensure Irish remains at the heart of our Junior and Leaving Certificate Curriculum”.Source

Should the UK abolish university tuition fees? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, but they should be reduced At third level, Fianna Fáil will reinstate maintenance grants for post grad education to remove the financial barriers which have arisen under Fine Gael and Labour. We will also freeze tuition fees, link the Student Maintenance Grant to inflation and double the Student Assistance Fund for those in financial distress.Source

Should girls be allowed to wear the niqab or burka in Catholic Schools? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Source

Should the free tuition fees scheme be available to foreign students? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Source

Should the government be able to monitor phone calls and emails? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No The idea that someone or some organization is engaged in covertly monitoring the ombudsman is deeply unsettling and risks undermining public confidence. The Minister needs to come forward and explain whether he has spoken to the Ombudsman and whether he was aware of this surveillance.Source

Do you support a united Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Party leader Micheál Martin says he believes Irish unity is possible in his lifetime but that serious work needs to be done to prepare for such a...Source

Are you in favour of decriminalising drug use? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, we should pass tougher drug laws Develop and implement an effective National Substance Misuse Strategy inclusive of all drugs including alcohol and...Source

Should the government pass laws which protect whistleblowers? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil has welcomed the publication of the Guerin report and has called on the Government to immediately set about establishing a full Commission of Inquiry into the gross mishandling of allegations raised by garda...Source

Should the Seanad be a wholly elected body? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, but there should be a significant majority of Senators who are directly elected through universal suffrage. Launching the bill today, the party leader Micheál Martin said that his proposals are giving “the kind of fundamental reform that the people were looking for and that the people deserve” within the constraints of the current Constitution. The bill proposes that 43 of the 60 seats would be elected through universal suffrage with everyone eligible to vote in the Dáil elections also able to vote for the Seanad. Citizens living in the North, and anyone holding an Irish passport will also be able to apply to vote in the elections. The six university seats would be opened-up to allow all third-level graduates to vote – a reform already proposed by the current government. The Taoiseach’s 11 nominees remain but he or she will be required to consider representation of the elderly, the young, the ‘new Irish’ community, the Irish diaspora, disabled people, sporting organisations, the arts and the Traveller community and consider persons nominated by interest groups in these areas.Source

Should the power-sharing provincial government be restored in Northern Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes, but the present parliamentary system is in need of reform. In the talks, Sinn Fein is demanding legal rights for Irish speakers, the legalisation of gay marriage and official inquiries into historic...Source

Should it be illegal to burn our national flag? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government regulate social media sites, as a means to prevent fake news and misinformation? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should there be term limits set for members of Congress? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No We support the introduction of a mixed list system, electing TDs through the traditional constituency system and supplementing these TDs with TDs elected via a national...Source

Should elected Members of Parliament in Northern Ireland be able to sit and participate in the Dáil? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, but there should be a representative role for Irish citizens living abroad and in Northern Ireland within a reformed Seanad. Fianna Fáil has published a bill to reform the Seanad and broaden its electorate to allow everyone who is eligible to vote in Dáil elections as well as Irish citizens in the North and abroad to elect members for the upper...Source

Should the government ban gambling? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, but we should increase funding and support for addiction treatment. Source

Should social media companies ban political advertising? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should the government increase environmental regulations on businesses to reduce carbon emissions? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes, and provide more incentives for alternative energy production Source

Should disposable products (such as plastic cups, plates, and cutlery) that contain less than 50% of biodegradable material be banned? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should researchers be allowed to use animals in testing the safety of drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and cosmetics? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Do you support the use of hydraulic fracking to extract oil and natural gas resources? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: yes, but more research should be carried out into long term effects Source

Do you support the practice of hunting foxes with dogs? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Do you support the use of genetically engineered crops and foods? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Source

Should cities be allowed to offer private companies economic incentives to relocate? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should employers be required to pay men and women the same salary for the same job? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Gender inequality persists despite international research proving the business case for more women in corporate leadership positions. Female participation in the Irish labour market remains well below EU levels, and women in the workforce are still not treated on a par with men. The research also found that the earnings gap increases with the education level attained. Quality education boosts women’s economic empowerment yet this is not always reflected in their take home pay. Gender based pay inequality is sadly not exclusive to companies in the private sector, it is a just as prevalent in the public service. Both sectors must proactively address the issue by dealing with workplace discrimination and striving to adopt more family friendly work practices.Source

Should funding for social housing be increased? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise taxes on the rich? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, but lower taxes for the poor Extending social welfare protection to self-employed people achieves a measure of social equality. In addition, it reduces the risk for those entrepreneurs who wish to start up their own businesses by providing a safety net. To facilitate this, we propose to allow the self-employed to opt into PRSI Class A. They would pay an extra 4% PRSI under Class A, in addition to their existing Class S contribution. The same terms and conditions would then apply for the unemployed self-employed as they do for the unemployed PAYE employee.Source

Should water charges be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil consistently opposed the creation of Irish Water. The controversy of consultancy costs, bonuses and overstaffing at the super quango has borne out our...Source

Should bankers’ bonuses be capped at 100% of their pay? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes The Fianna Fáil bill builds on the pension reductions already imposed on retired public servants and proposes tiered reductions in pension entitlements of over €100,000 by between 20% and 40% for banking executives and retired executives in the covered institutions (guaranteed banks). In view of the exceptional level of support provided by the State to the covered institutions, I believe the introduction of legislation to reduce certain pension entitlements is reasonable and justified.Source

Should the government raise the federal minimum wage? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil has recommended a 6.4% increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW) to €9.20 as part of the party’s submission to Low Pay...Source

Should the government abolish the inheritance tax? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, reform so the tax rate is based on the wealth of the recipient rather than the deceased Prior to the budget I proposed an immediate increase to €300,000 with a clear commitment to raise the threshold further in future years. I also believe there is a need to apply an annual indexation to thresholds based on the Residential Property Price Index to give greater certainty in the application of CAT.Source

Should the government raise or lower the tax rate for corporations? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Raise The move in the Budget to lower Corporation Tax is not only regressive but it will undermine the progress which has been made to date, in attempting to close the loopholes in legislation which Multi-National companies are currently...Source

Should there be fewer or more restrictions on current welfare benefits? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Fewer, and ensure benefits go to those that need it most Cllr Lahart explained, “Thousands of people across Dublin are being forced to wait months for decisions as a result of unacceptable delays in the social welfare appeals process. This is leading to months of stress and anxiety, not to mention the financial burden that is placed on these families while they wait for a decision.Source

Should welfare recipients be tested for drugs? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government make cuts to public spending in order to reduce the national debt? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government use economic stimulus to aid the country during times of recession? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes, but in the form of tax breaks for low income citizens Fianna Fáil’s aim is to create conditions that will support an increase in employment throughout the economy. We will do this by delivering a tax regime that rewards individual effort and enterprise, tackling anti-competitive practices and enhancing skills levels supporting high quality sustainable jobs.Source

Do you support a universal basic income program? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Do you believe labor unions help or hurt the economy? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Hurt, I support some private unions but am strongly against public unions Source

Should pension payments be increased for retired government workers? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No, not until we decrease our national debt Source

Should the government provide tax incentives to private companies to keep jobs within the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Jobs Dara Calleary says tax measures unveiled by Sinn Fein today are bad for business and will be bad for jobs. Reacting to the proposal to introduce a new 15.75% rate of Employers PRSI on a portion of salary in excess of €100,000, Deputy Calleary said, “These are exactly the sort of policies that are counter productive at a time when we are trying to attract high skilled, well paid jobs. Initiatives such as this will repel future multinational investment as well as threatening existing jobs. “An increase in PRSI will make it more difficult for Ireland to compete with other countries for much sought after investment and job opportunities. Unlike Sinn Fein and it’s anti-jobs strategy, Fianna Fáil is a pro-enterprise party, which has developed incentives to attract FDI companies as well as ensuring that small and medium businesses have the supports they need to expand and grow”.Source

Should VAT rates be increased or decreased? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Decrease, to provide economic growth This VAT increase will inevitably affect shopping patterns and will undoubtedly cause further job losses in an already distressed retail sector, particularly in the early part of...Source

Should citizens be allowed to save or invest their money in offshore bank accounts? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Finance Michael McGrath has called for the Offshore Assets Group of Revenue to fully investigate the information which is coming to light from the “HSBC leaks” files. A dedicated unit of the Revenue Commissioners, the Offshore Assets Group, was set up in 2001 and to date has collected close to €1bn in taxes and penalties. Deputy McGrath commented: “So far 20 Irish account holders have made settlements with the Revenue Commissioners worth over €4.5m relating to the Swiss branch of HSBC. While this is a significant amount of money in itself it is relatively small in the context of the amount of money that has been found to be held offshore. There may be scope for a considerable additional windfall for the Exchequer from a full investigation of the source of all funds held by Irish residents in these accounts and whether their tax liabilities have been fully met. The unit must be resourced adequately to meet this need. Ordinary taxpayers have been shocked by revelations of elaborate tax evasion schemes conducted through a labyrinth of off shore arrangements. They can reasonably expect that every effort is made to clamp down on this sort of activity and recoup the revenue that the State was denied.”Source

Should the government add or increase tariffs on products imported into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Do you support the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes, but with more transparency Fianna Fáil supports the principle of removing barriers to trade. This is essential for Ireland to be successful. However, we also believe that trade deals must be fair and must protect the position of states which aim to ensure high living and employment standards. An ambitious and comprehensive TTIP (Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership) agreement between the EU and United States has the potential to add up to 10,000 jobs to the Irish economy across a wide range of businesses. However there are a number of issues that cannot be compromised around food standards and investor-state-dispute-settlement (ISDS) mechanisms to protect Irish interests before full support can be given.Source

Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should the government break up Amazon, Facebook and Google? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should Muslim immigrants be banned from entering the country until the government improves its ability to screen out potential terrorists? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should there be a temporary ban on all immigration into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin has said that it was morally wrong for US President, Donald Trump to impose a travel ban on the grounds on religion or nationality. Deputy Martin was speaking during Leaders’ Questions today in Dáil Éireann where he questioned the Taoiseach on what steps he had taken to let the Trump Administration know the deep unease being expressed across the Irish political spectrum about his recent Executive Order on immigration. “The events of the last seven days have left Irish people, and people across the world, very concerned. President Trump’s Executive Order has, for all intents and purposes, stigmatised an entire religion. “It contravenes the Geneva Convention, and it offends our concept of human decency. “There is no logic to the ban, and the Irish Government should make it crystal clear to President Trump that it opposes it.Source

Should immigrants be required to learn English? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the EU impose a quota of migrants per country? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should immigrants be required to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate a basic understanding of our country’s language, history, and government? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should the government provide welfare benefits to foreigners? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Source

Should immigrants be allowed to hold dual citizenship status? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes A Bill to be published by Fianna Fáil proposes to give illegal immigrants an opportunity to acquire residency rights and have their status regularised. The Migrant Earned Regulation Bill, 2015 is the idea of Fianna Fáil justice spokesman Niall Collins and shares some characteristics with legislation proposed by Senators John McCain and Ted Kennedy in the US in 2005. Mr Collins’s Bill proposes a scheme where illegal migrants can “earn” the right to have their status regularised. It would allow participants to accrue credits in a number of categories including employment, USC contributions, income tax, evidence that a parent was caring for a child or dependent relative, educational qualifications and continuous residency.Source

Should the government increase or decrease the amount of temporary work visas given to high-skilled immigrant workers? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Increase Source

Should the children of migrants who live in French territories be allowed to join their families? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should politicians be required to wait until the age of 65 to receive a pension? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: Yes Source

Should a politician, who has been formerly convicted of a crime, be allowed to run for office? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should the minimum voting age be lowered? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes Fianna Fáil believes in the principle of votes at 16, and included a commitment in our 2016 General Election manifesto to reduce the voting age from 18 to 16 for the 2019 Local Elections on a trial...Source

Should corporations, unions, and non-profit organizations be allowed to donate to political parties? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No In February nearly every member of this House stood on a platform of banning corporate donations. There was no equivocation and no party put a get out clause in the footnotes of its manifesto. This is a reform which the public demand and which we have a duty to deliver sooner not later. Deep restrictions on corporate donations can be introduced in legislation but a complete ban can only be implemented by amending the constitution. The text which is contained in this Bill incorporates the simple and powerful premise that elections should be funded by the people entitled to vote in elections. No organisation or company has a vote and their complete removal from the funding of parties would be an important symbol in the battle to restore faith in Irish politics.Source

Should Irish citizens, living abroad and in Northern Ireland, have the right to vote in presidential elections? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: Yes In order to fulfill the democratic aspirations of all our people we must allow all Irish citizens the right to vote in our presidential elections including Irish citizens in the North. There are other European examples of parliamentary representation for citizens living outside of the State and a reformed Seanad should extend the right to vote to Irish citizens abroad.Source

Should foreigners, currently residing in the United States, have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should the Seanad be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No The Seanad is a safeguard on government power. This government has systematically broken its pre-election promises to change how the system works and concentrated power into fewer and fewer hands. A reformed Seanad can make sure that power does not go unquestioned either with this government or even more importantly unknown future governments. Voting NO will make sure we have a Seanad to keep a close check on government power.Source

Should the number of elected representatives be reduced? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should drug traffickers receive the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should the government hire private companies to run prisons? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should repeat offenders be entitled to free legal aid? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should convicted criminals have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

Should non-violent prisoners be released from jail in order to reduce overcrowding? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil’s answer: No "While it is accepted there is an issue with overcrowding in our prisons, any solution must put the victims of crime, their families and our communities first.” “When considered in conjunction with Minister Shatter’s policy of closing Garda stations, this is yet another instance of this Government putting the safety and welfare of our communities second. I am asking Minister Shatter to immediately clarify his proposals and confirm no individual convicted of a violent or sexual offence will be considered for this amnesty”, concluded Councillor Devlin.Source

Should laptops be banned on all direct flights departing from the Middle East? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should France continue to assassinate suspected terrorists in foreign countries? ^{stats discuss}

Fianna Fáil voters: No Source

What is your stance on abortion? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Pro-life, but allow in cases of rape, incest, or danger to the mother or child Source

Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes, as long as they pass the same background checks as straight couples Sinn Féin fully supports the right of same sex couples to marry and form a family, including by...Source

Do you support the legalisation of same sex marriage? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should terminally ill patients be allowed to end their lives via assisted suicide? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes, but only after a psychological examination to show they fully understand this choice Sinn Féin health spokesman Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said the Bill could give legal effect to end- of-life care preferences, including the refusal of life-sustaining treatment and “for the appointment of an attorney, who could make certain decisions on a person’s behalf”. He said a healthcare professional would have no legal liability when they followed an advance decision they believed valid and applicable to the condition being treated. Mr Ó Caoláin said such planning should be available to all, including mental health patients.Source

Do you support the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should businesses be required to have women on their board of directors? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the military allow women to serve in combat roles? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin believes proper investment needs to be directed at the men and women of the Defence Forces whose much lauded roles as peacekeepers in some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones must be matched by fair rates of pay and adequate allowances.Source

Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in athletic events? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should women be allowed to wear a Niqāb, or face veil, to civic ceremonies? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase funding for mental health research and treatment? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should Ireland adopt a public healthcare system similar to the NHS in Britain? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin is committed to the realisation of a world-class system of universal health care, accessed on the basis of need, free at the point of delivery, and funded by progressive taxation for the Irish state. We believe there is no greater good worth striving for.Source

Should there be more or less privatisation of hospital and healthcare services? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Less 'Sinn Féin is committed to the realisation of a world-class system of universal health...Source

Do you support a single-payer healthcare system? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Do you support the legalisation of Marijuana? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes, but only for medical use Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Justice and Drugs Jonathan O'Brien TD has tonight outlined the party's support for passage of the Cannabis for Medicinal Use Regulation Bill 2016 to Committee Stage, where it will table appropriate amendments. The Cork North Central TD strongly emphasised that the issues addressed by the Bill where matters of health and that he welcomed the Bill as "important initiative in the development of healthcare in Ireland."Source

Should cities open drug “safe havens” where people who are addicted to illegal drugs can use them under the supervision of medical professionals? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase spending on public transportation? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government require children to be vaccinated for preventable diseases? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No but require vaccination in order to attend public school in addition to funding public ad campaigns about the risks and benefits instead. Source

Do you support the use of nuclear energy? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Michael Colreavy TD, has said that nuclear power should not be developed in Ireland. Speaking following the publication of the government Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland, Deputy Colreavy said: “Sinn Féin, at our most recent Ard Fheis, reiterated our opposition on nuclear energy. Nuclear energy, which has been a controversial source of energy production throughout the world, should not be developed in Ireland.Source

Should the Irish language remain a compulsory subject on the national curriculum? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Fein supports . . . Maintaining the status of Irish as a compulsory subject in examinations such as the Junior Cert and Leaving...Source

Should the UK abolish university tuition fees? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin's position is quite clearly that access to higher education must be based on the ability to learn and not on the ability to pay. Sinn Féin was opposed to the introduction of tuition fees and remains opposed to any notion of increasing tuition fees.Source

Should girls be allowed to wear the niqab or burka in Catholic Schools? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Source

Should the free tuition fees scheme be available to foreign students? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government be able to monitor phone calls and emails? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Do you support a united Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Towards a United Ireland – Gerry Adams (party...Source

Are you in favour of decriminalising drug use? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Source

Should the government pass laws which protect whistleblowers? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin met with the Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald yesterday regarding the terms of reference and suggested a number of amendments to the Terms that were aimed at making the Tribunal as open, accountable, and comprehensive as...Source

Should the Seanad be a wholly elected body? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the power-sharing provincial government be restored in Northern Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should it be illegal to burn our national flag? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government regulate social media sites, as a means to prevent fake news and misinformation? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should there be term limits set for members of Congress? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should elected Members of Parliament in Northern Ireland be able to sit and participate in the Dáil? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin would . . . Introduce immediate speaking and consultative rights for Northern MPs and Assembly members in the Dáil and...Source

Should the government ban gambling? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes, and we should increase funding for addiction treatement Source

Should social media companies ban political advertising? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should the government increase environmental regulations on businesses to reduce carbon emissions? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should disposable products (such as plastic cups, plates, and cutlery) that contain less than 50% of biodegradable material be banned? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should researchers be allowed to use animals in testing the safety of drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and cosmetics? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Do you support the use of hydraulic fracking to extract oil and natural gas resources? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Source

Do you support the practice of hunting foxes with dogs? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Do you support the use of genetically engineered crops and foods? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Source

Should cities be allowed to offer private companies economic incentives to relocate? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should employers be required to pay men and women the same salary for the same job? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should funding for social housing be increased? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise taxes on the rich? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Fein will introduce a third rate of tax on income above €100,000 and a wealth tax if voted into Government. Speaking at the Sinn Fein Ard Fheis in Derry, the party’s finance spokesman Pearse Doherty said the party will target high earners to replace revenue lost from scrapping water charges and property tax.Source

Should water charges be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin has committed to abolish domestic water charges in Government, and we would not pursue arrears for these same...Source

Should bankers’ bonuses be capped at 100% of their pay? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government raise the federal minimum wage? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government abolish the inheritance tax? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise or lower the tax rate for corporations? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Increase for large multinational corporations but lower for small businesses The move in the Budget to lower Corporation Tax is not only regressive but it will undermine the progress which has been made to date, in attempting to close the loopholes in legislation which Multi-National companies are currently...Source

Should there be fewer or more restrictions on current welfare benefits? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Fewer, and ensure benefits go to those that need it most At all times Sinn Féin was absolutely clear, privately and publicly, that the agreement was to provide full protection for current and future claimants of benefits under the control of the Executive. These documents illustrate that this is the...Source

Should welfare recipients be tested for drugs? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should the government make cuts to public spending in order to reduce the national debt? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No, cuts to public spending will negatively affect the economy Source

Should the government use economic stimulus to aid the country during times of recession? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes, but in the form of increased spending on infrastructure Our significant investment in infrastructure and public services, such as in housing, health and education, will deliver 250,000 jobs over the next five...Source

Do you support a universal basic income program? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Do you believe labor unions help or hurt the economy? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Help Source

Should pension payments be increased for retired government workers? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should the government provide tax incentives to private companies to keep jobs within the country? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should VAT rates be increased or decreased? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Decrease, but only on food and medicine The 9% VAT rate for food and tourism services has been a success with an increase of approximately 9,000 jobs in the sector. This has obviously had a knock on effect for other businesses and local economies. It is important that this success is allowed to continue and grow as the state continues on the path to economic recovery.Source

Should citizens be allowed to save or invest their money in offshore bank accounts? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should the government add or increase tariffs on products imported into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Do you support the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Sinn Féin has made it clear it will not support the inclusion of the Investor State Dispute Settlement mechanism (ISDS) in TTIP, with the French, German and British governments also echoing this...Source

Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should the government break up Amazon, Facebook and Google? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should Muslim immigrants be banned from entering the country until the government improves its ability to screen out potential terrorists? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Sinn Féin is seeking a new, agreed and united Ireland. We want to build a just, fair and equal Ireland, an economically prosperous and socially and culturally inclusive Ireland. We want to protect our most vulnerable, the elderly, children, the ill, the ethnic minorities, those with disabilities – and ensure that equality is the touchstone upon which all policies are formulated. The republican vision of a united Ireland is based on the principles of equality, inclusion and sovereignty. There can be no place for sectarianism, exclusion or discrimination.Source

Should there be a temporary ban on all immigration into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Human Rights Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed the recommendations of the Immigrant Council of Ireland study Labour Migration into Ireland...to create a positive, integrated, transparent,anti-racist, rights-based immigration policy for this state - based on progressive international best practice models. "The Council has called on political leaders and the Government especially to accept and publicly declare that immigration is a permanent and positive reality in Irish society, with the potential to bring enormous social, cultural, and economic benefit to this island. Sinn Féin can endorse this statement without any hesitation whatsoever.Source

Should immigrants be required to learn English? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No Sinn Féin calls on all political parties in Ireland to sign an anti-racist pledge and make a commitment that they will not play party politics with the race issue and that they will not tolerate racism in any form in their party. Education Sinn Féin advocates the inclusion of anti-racism education as a component part of the national curriculum in primary and secondary schools throughout Ireland. Immigration Sinn Féin calls on the Irish Government to sign and ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.Source

Should the EU impose a quota of migrants per country? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: No "The Immigrant Council of Ireland... has called on political leaders and the Government especially to accept and publicly declare that immigration is a permanent and positive reality in Irish society, with the potential to bring enormous social, cultural, and economic benefit to this island. Sinn Féin can endorse this statement without any hesitation whatsoever,Source

Should immigrants be required to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate a basic understanding of our country’s language, history, and government? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government provide welfare benefits to foreigners? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Source

Should immigrants be allowed to hold dual citizenship status? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase or decrease the amount of temporary work visas given to high-skilled immigrant workers? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Increase Source

Should the children of migrants who live in French territories be allowed to join their families? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should politicians be required to wait until the age of 65 to receive a pension? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should a politician, who has been formerly convicted of a crime, be allowed to run for office? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Upon leaving prison Kelly became actively involved in politics. Kelly and fellow Sinn Féin member Martin McGuinness both engaged in protracted secret negotiations with representatives of the British Government from 1990 until...Source

Should the minimum voting age be lowered? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Senator Fintan Warfield will use Sinn Féin Private Members' Time on Wednesday 29th March, to bring forward legislation that will allow the voting age in Local Government and European Parliament elections to be reduced to sixteen years of...Source

Should corporations, unions, and non-profit organizations be allowed to donate to political parties? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should Irish citizens, living abroad and in Northern Ireland, have the right to vote in presidential elections? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should foreigners, currently residing in the United States, have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should the Seanad be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty has today launched his party's campaign for the abolition of the Seanad. Speaking at the launch in Dublin this morning Deputy Doherty said fairness, democracy and equality of citizenship demand that the current Seanad be abolished. He said; "The cronyism and the elitism that are synonymous with the Seanad has fostered the type of politics that has brought this state to its knees. In the last two-and-a-half years, the Seanad has supported the government on every single occasion, including the introduction of the property tax, cuts to disability payments and the promissory note deal which is costing the tax payer €30 billion. The Seanad has promoted political cronies and allies rather than ideas or visions. And Fianna Fáil, who now seek to preserve the Seanad, is the party which has done the most to reinforce the perception of the Seanad as a hot house of cronyism."Source

Should the number of elected representatives be reduced? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should drug traffickers receive the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should the government hire private companies to run prisons? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should repeat offenders be entitled to free legal aid? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

Should convicted criminals have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: Yes Source

Should non-violent prisoners be released from jail in order to reduce overcrowding? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin’s answer: Yes Responding to news reports this morning of overcrowding at the Dóchas women’s centre in Mountjoy Prison, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has said that the serious issues raised would be addressed if the Oireachtas Justice Committee's report and recommendations on penal reform were implemented by the Government. Speaking today Deputy Mac Lochlainn said; “Sinn Féin has long called for the use of alternatives to custodial sentences such as fines and community service for low level, non-violent crimes. The Oireachtas Justice Committee report on penal reform recommends this approach also as one of their five key recommendations. “If this report was implemented in full I am sure this would solve the problem of overcrowding reported this morning and would go a long way to solving the problem of overcrowding in our men’s prisons also. “I call on the Justice Minister Alan Shatter to ensure that this report is implemented as soon as possible.”Source

Should laptops be banned on all direct flights departing from the Middle East? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should France continue to assassinate suspected terrorists in foreign countries? ^{stats discuss}

Sinn Féin voters: No Source

What is your stance on abortion? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Pro-choice Free, safe and legal access to medical treatments for pregnant people, including: Lawful terminations up to and including 12 weeks’ gestation without restriction. Lawful terminations after 12 weeks’ gestation where it is recommended to do so by qualified medical practitioners, subject to the Medical Council.Source

Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Do you support the legalisation of same sex marriage? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party today joined with locals for a peaceful protest outside the venue in Kilkenny where controversial evangelical pastor Angus Buchan was speaking this evening. The Greens said that while it was important to uphold values of free assembly and free speech in a democracy, that it was equally important that free assembly included the right for people to voice their opposition to intolerance and prejudice. Speaking following the event, local Green Party Councillor and Environment Spokesperson, Cllr. Malcolm Noonan said that he was there in solidarity with the LGBTI community, not just in Kilkenny but worldwide, and that he saw no place for Mr Buchan’s views on homosexuality or the degradation of women in society. He said: “We are so lucky to be living in the first country in the world to endorse same sex marriage by popular vote. Yet in many countries being gay is a crime, punishable by imprisonment and persecution. Angus Buchan is spreading hate and intolerance and we here in Kilkenny wish to send out a strong message that we do not accept his worldview. Our presence here today is a peaceful way of saying to him that he can be cured of his homophobia and we are here to help and support him on that journey. Cllr Noonan urged the Government to move quickly to introduce hate speech laws in Ireland to strengthen the 1989 Incitement to Hatred Act. “It could be argued that what Mr Buchan says at an event organised by a local community group is not of public concern. In our view it is a matter of public concern and cuts to the very core of our basic decency as a society. Those of us who uphold those values of decency have a responsibility to ensure that these dangerous and outdated views are challenged at every turn.” concluded Cllr Noonan.Source

Should terminally ill patients be allowed to end their lives via assisted suicide? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party proposes that in Ireland there should be a statutory right to an assisted death which would be distinguished in law from suicide, assisted suicide, and euthanasia. Assisted dying provisions should apply only to those with a terminal illness which is likely to result in death within six months. The Green Party proposes to ensure that a person who is terminally ill will have the right to request and lawfully be provided with assistance to end their own life. Such a right would only apply where the person has a clear and settled intention to end their own life which is proved by making, and signing, a written declaration to that effect. Such a declaration must be countersigned by two qualified doctors.Source

Do you support the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should businesses be required to have women on their board of directors? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the military allow women to serve in combat roles? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in athletic events? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should women be allowed to wear a Niqāb, or face veil, to civic ceremonies? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase funding for mental health research and treatment? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should Ireland adopt a public healthcare system similar to the NHS in Britain? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party/Comhaontas Glas believes in a systematic approach to universal healthcare, built around patient empowerment and preventative methods, supported by information technology, accessed on the basis of medical need, and executed in an economic, equitable and ecological manner.Source

Should there be more or less privatisation of hospital and healthcare services? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Less, and provide more government funding We recognise that the health-care we provide is costly to the state and to its citizens. More efficient patient-centred healthcare costs less because people are empowered to make choices that benefit them in the long term. The correct incentives should also be in place to ensure that different services are integrated to deliver the best results. The Green Party strongly disagrees with other parties who prioritise tax cuts over solving the crisis in the Health Service. This approach appears to be costly in the short term, but when waste, duplication of services caused by competition and perverse incentives in the current two-tier system are removed, there will be significant savings. The Green Party: Believes in a single-tier health system based on need rather than the ability to pay. The fairest and most progressive way to achieve this is by funding from general taxation Supports multi-annual budgeting, Activity Based Costing and blended Capitation Schemes to incentivise efficient targeted use of resources throughout our health system Supports the introduction of small charges for all medical services, to be paid at point of use of those services, subject to a person’s medical need and their ability to pay Will phase out all tax incentives and public sector concessions for those who purchase or provide private health care services and private health-care insurance. Negotiate medication costs regionally based on EU procurement best practices, with specialist advice to ensure that we get the best medications at the most cost-effective price, without the risks of drug shortagesSource

Do you support a single-payer healthcare system? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Do you support the legalisation of Marijuana? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes, and immediately release anyone serving time solely for drug offenses 19th October 2016 The Green Party have called for the decriminalisation of drug use and the legalisation of cannabis for medical use among their recommendations to the Government’s new National Drugs Strategy. The public consultation on the new strategy closed yesterday. Speaking in support of the submission, Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan TD said: “Opportunities for open consultation on government policy are very welcome, particularly when it comes to matters as important as our National Drugs Strategy, and we’re glad that the Government sought submissions on this issue. There has to be an acceptance that the current situation in Ireland is not working for anyone, and that a new National Drugs Strategy presents an opportunity to change this. “The Green Party supports implementing a regime of decriminalising drug use in Ireland, along the lines of Portuguese reforms in 2001. The Portuguese model reduces the burden on law enforcement and the criminal justice system, facilitates better research on the health impact of drugs and undermines the profit making abilities of criminal gangs. The current system is not working, so we’d like to see the new National Drugs Strategy address the inherent shortcomings.” Green Party spokesperson for Health, Dr. Séamus McMenamin, says that a focus on harm-reduction is not only more compassionate but more effective in tackling drug use. He said: “International best practice is moving towards this harm-reduction model over a criminal-justice approach. This is partly because honest interactions with drug users can better inform our research into issues around drugs. This doesn't happen when drug users are treated like criminals. The Green Party proposes injection centres that provide medically-supervised access to drugs to aid rehabilitation, the legal status of drugs to be reviewed in light of evidence for medical benefits, in particular the legalisation of cannabis for medical use, and drug testing kits being made available to the public in places like night clubs and music festivals, to prioritise public health in those circumstances.” Summary of Green Party recommendations: 1. A time-frame for decriminalising the use of drugs in national law. 2. A review of the legal status of drugs with established medicinal properties. 3. A particular review of the legal status of cannabis. 4. Legal availability of cannabis products for medically-prescribed use. 5. Research focus on effective intervention with young adult drug users. 6. Provision of information exchange between drug users and researchers. 7. Provision of centres for safe access to drugs under medical supervision. 8. Provision of drug-testing services. 9. Monitoring quality and public health impact of drugs on the Irish market. 10. Research focus on lifestyle factors that reduce the likelihood of drug use. 11. Research focus and public education on effective rehabilitation strategies. 12. Require sports clubs to promote responsible alcohol consumption.Source

Should cities open drug “safe havens” where people who are addicted to illegal drugs can use them under the supervision of medical professionals? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase spending on public transportation? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government require children to be vaccinated for preventable diseases? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Do you support the use of nuclear energy? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No Cllr Smyth said: "We need to be clear: no one serious is arguing that nuclear power is a viable option for Ireland. No reputable grid engineers are saying that we could integrate a nuclear power source without almost insurmountable challenges and astronomical costs. The UK's newest nuclear facility requires a strike price guarantee at double the current market rate and is projected to cost over."Source

Should the Irish language remain a compulsory subject on the national curriculum? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes, but we need to revise and reform how it is taught in schools. The Green Party calls for a comprehensive review of the teaching and learning of Irish at primary and post-primary level, both in the Republic and in Northern...Source

Should the UK abolish university tuition fees? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should girls be allowed to wear the niqab or burka in Catholic Schools? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the free tuition fees scheme be available to foreign students? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government be able to monitor phone calls and emails? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Do you support a united Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Are you in favour of decriminalising drug use? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes, and retroactively reduce sentences for those already serving time 19th October 2016 The Green Party have called for the decriminalisation of drug use and the legalisation of cannabis for medical use among their recommendations to the Government’s new National Drugs Strategy. The public consultation on the new strategy closed yesterday. Speaking in support of the submission, Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan TD said: “Opportunities for open consultation on government policy are very welcome, particularly when it comes to matters as important as our National Drugs Strategy, and we’re glad that the Government sought submissions on this issue. There has to be an acceptance that the current situation in Ireland is not working for anyone, and that a new National Drugs Strategy presents an opportunity to change this. “The Green Party supports implementing a regime of decriminalising drug use in Ireland, along the lines of Portuguese reforms in 2001. The Portuguese model reduces the burden on law enforcement and the criminal justice system, facilitates better research on the health impact of drugs and undermines the profit making abilities of criminal gangs. The current system is not working, so we’d like to see the new National Drugs Strategy address the inherent shortcomings.” Green Party spokesperson for Health, Dr. Séamus McMenamin, says that a focus on harm-reduction is not only more compassionate but more effective in tackling drug use. He said: “International best practice is moving towards this harm-reduction model over a criminal-justice approach. This is partly because honest interactions with drug users can better inform our research into issues around drugs. This doesn't happen when drug users are treated like criminals. The Green Party proposes injection centres that provide medically-supervised access to drugs to aid rehabilitation, the legal status of drugs to be reviewed in light of evidence for medical benefits, in particular the legalisation of cannabis for medical use, and drug testing kits being made available to the public in places like night clubs and music festivals, to prioritise public health in those circumstances.” Summary of Green Party recommendations: 1. A time-frame for decriminalising the use of drugs in national law. 2. A review of the legal status of drugs with established medicinal properties. 3. A particular review of the legal status of cannabis. 4. Legal availability of cannabis products for medically-prescribed use. 5. Research focus on effective intervention with young adult drug users. 6. Provision of information exchange between drug users and researchers. 7. Provision of centres for safe access to drugs under medical supervision. 8. Provision of drug-testing services. 9. Monitoring quality and public health impact of drugs on the Irish market. 10. Research focus on lifestyle factors that reduce the likelihood of drug use. 11. Research focus and public education on effective rehabilitation strategies. 12. Require sports clubs to promote responsible alcohol consumption.Source

Should the government pass laws which protect whistleblowers? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes "Yesterday's successful vote by the European Parliament on legislation drafted by a Green MEP, which will ensure far greater data protection and privacy for European citizens, was a landmark in our struggle to keep the internet free from excessive state or corporate control, and that protection simply would not have happened without Snowden's revelations. The scale of the spying which Snowden revealed has been a wake-up call to people all over the world, and I would have thought Phil Prendergast would have wanted to afford him the maximum protection possible. "If elected to the European Parliament, I will do my upmost to protect and encourage whistleblowers to come forward with this type of information. We are a better society because of people like Edward Snowden. Given Labour's recent silence over the attacks on Garda Maurice McCabe, I suppose it's probably not surprising that both Phil Prendergast and Emer Costello showed no desire to protect whistleblowers. Labour clearly see no point in supporting these vital champions of a free and transparent society."Source

Should the Seanad be a wholly elected body? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the power-sharing provincial government be restored in Northern Ireland? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Executive parties should have the confidence, vision and willingness to work together for the common good. If they can't do that because of fear over their own position, maybe it’s time to let the people decide and give them back the power. I am calling on the Secretary of State to publish the best compromise and put it to a vote. If the five Executive parties can't put the interests of the people of Northern Ireland ahead of their own then let the people have their say. Let us all decide if the compromises are worth making.Source

Should it be illegal to burn our national flag? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government regulate social media sites, as a means to prevent fake news and misinformation? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should there be term limits set for members of Congress? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should elected Members of Parliament in Northern Ireland be able to sit and participate in the Dáil? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government ban gambling? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should social media companies ban political advertising? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should the government increase environmental regulations on businesses to reduce carbon emissions? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The need to address long-term problems, such as climate change, is an overarching value of the Green Party. We support the enactment of national legislation to respond to climate change and transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. This will reduce our over-dependence on imported sources of fossil fuel energy. Global events related to extreme weather, such as storms and droughts, could compromise our food security and lead to increased immigration into Ireland by ‘climate refugees’. By 2050, Ireland’s power, heat and transport systems should no longer rely on fossil fuels and our agricultural system should achieve carbon neutrality. This is technologically possible, and would result in greater employment, energy efficiency, security, an improved economy, and improved public health, in addition to contributing to a healthier climate We need to establish ambitious but realistic binding national greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for 2030 and aim for 100% decarbonisation of the power system and an 80% overall reduction in national emissions by 2050 The development of a new national planning process encompassing both climate mitigation and adaptation is essential There should be a requirement for annual reporting on national climate action plans to the Oireachtas We support the development of local food production systems to decrease reliance on food imports There should be greater consideration on the asylum status of refugees fleeing environmental disasters in addition to armed conflict A massive increase in afforestation consisting of native and continuous cover woodlands to help offset our carbon emissions. Only 10% of land in Ireland is under forestry which represents the second lowest proportional percentage of any country in Europe The systems for the protection of our environment need to be strengthened. We would: Ensure greater coordination between, environmental regulation and planning control. Establish a National Environmental Action Plan Develop an all-island structure for environmental protection and enforcement Review the levels of fines and range of sanctions available to courts Allocate additional resources to the EPA, with a particular emphasis on investment in monitoring and enforcement activities Properly resource the enforcement division of the EPA so that it is able to prosecute serious offences on indictment rather than summarily. Provide in licensing conditions for the problems created by companies going insolvent Strengthen the role and membership of the EPA’s Advisory Board to have more expertise and greater input into the agency’s strategy Establish a forum of appeal for the Integration Pollution Prevention and Control license system Introduce annual audits of local authority environmental performance and invest in local government environmental enforcement capacity e.g. training, consistent approach to enforcement, minimum inspection criteria and best practice The Irish Constitution should be amended to recognise the intrinsic worth of the environment, such as the provision in the Ecuadorian Constitution acknowledging that Nature has the right to exist, persist, maintain and regenerate its vital cycles The Green Party supports the proposition that a crime of ecocide be created in international law, as a crime against nature, humanity and future generations, to be defined as ‘the extensive damage to, destruction of or loss of ecosystem(s) of a given territory, whether by human agency or other causes, to such an extent that peaceful enjoyment by the inhabitants (human and non-human) of that territory has been or will be severely diminished’; and that the proposed crime of ecocide be formally recognised as a Crime against Peace subject to the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.’Source

Should disposable products (such as plastic cups, plates, and cutlery) that contain less than 50% of biodegradable material be banned? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should researchers be allowed to use animals in testing the safety of drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and cosmetics? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Do you support the use of hydraulic fracking to extract oil and natural gas resources? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No, more research is needed to measure the long term effects of fracking We know that four fifths of known fossil fuels will have to remain underground if we are to have a chance of avoiding dangerous levels of global warming. Ireland should show a lead by committing to a ban on hydraulic fracking for oil or gas and by ending the programme for licensing for oil and gas exploration in Irish territorial waters.Source

Do you support the practice of hunting foxes with dogs? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Do you support the use of genetically engineered crops and foods? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No Keep Ireland GMO free. The consequences of these technologies are not fully understood, they promote monoculture and the patenting of seeds threatens public access to safe and nutritious...Source

Should cities be allowed to offer private companies economic incentives to relocate? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should employers be required to pay men and women the same salary for the same job? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes Green Party Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Education, Catherine Martin TD, today reiterated her call on the Government to commit to the principle of equal pay for equal work, as the issue once again came to the fore as 3 teaching unions held their annual conferences this week. Speaking today, Deputy Martin said: “It is clear from the 3 teaching unions conferences that equal pay for equal work is still the burning issue for the teaching profession, and the prospect of strikes have been raised again. “The Government has continually refused to commit to the principle of equal pay for equal work or even outlining a stated timeline for its implementation. Failure to commit to this basic principle threatens further strikes and disruption. The Green Party is calling for the Government to commit to the principle of equal pay for equal work for all public sector workers, from clerical officers to teachers.Source

Should funding for social housing be increased? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise taxes on the rich? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said: "Come what may, we need to raise some €3 billion in new taxation measures over the next three years, just to meet day-to-day bills in health, education and social welfare. If we rely too much on income tax, we will make the country uncompetitive. If we raise it from consumption taxes, it will be unfair on the poor. It makes sense then to put some form of tax on inherited, non-productive wealth, and in Ireland that must mean the introduction of a property tax."Source

Should water charges be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No, but penalties should be levied on those who waste water. The Green Party’s position on water has been consistent for a decade. We will continue to advocate for penalties for wasters of water. The water meters have been installed in 60% of properties. We have a huge job to do in detecting and repairing leaks both in the public network and on private properties. We have obligations under the Water Framework Directive. It is not rocket science as to what needs to be done here. Fianna Fáil, however, have abandoned any semblance of good public policy in favour of easy answers and populism.Source

Should bankers’ bonuses be capped at 100% of their pay? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise the federal minimum wage? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party has today published its submission to the Low Pay Commission which includes a direct recommendation for the minimum wage to be increased to €9.20 and for the minimum wage to be linked to the consumer Price Index. Green Party Finance Spokesperson, Cllr Mark Dearey said today: "This submission sets out our clear belief that the minimum wage must rise to reflect the changes to the cost of living since the imposition of the current rate in 2007. This small increase will mean a huge amount to those at the lower end of the wage scale.Source

Should the government abolish the inheritance tax? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government raise or lower the tax rate for corporations? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Keep current rates but eliminate deductions and loop holes "We are also encouraging the Irish government to support measures such as country-by-country reporting to provide greater transparency of what is happening in the increasingly globalised capitalist system. We need to recognise the reputational damage caused by the practice of 'tax inversion', where US companies fold into an Irish subsidiary in order to avoid tax in the US, and be transparent about the companies which invert here. Overall, we should adopt a tax policy which follows the guiding principle of BEPS: that taxation should follow real economic activity." Green Party Leader, Eamon Ryan said: "We are calling on the government to join with the eleven other nations who comprise 90% of Eurozone GDP, and commit to introducing the Financial Transaction Tax (FTT). The FTT is weapon in the armoury of governments seeking to prevent another financial crisis sparked by excessive speculation and leveraged trading instruments. The future for the Irish Financial Services Centre has to be in more responsible long-term funding instruments and project finance, which would not be threatened by a tax focused on short-term trading activity."Source

Should there be fewer or more restrictions on current welfare benefits? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: More Source

Should welfare recipients be tested for drugs? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government make cuts to public spending in order to reduce the national debt? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government use economic stimulus to aid the country during times of recession? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes, but in the form of increased spending on infrastructure Our submission takes three approaches in providing for better public services ahead of tax cuts, leveraging greater capital investment in critical infrastructure and promoting local enterprise through reforming the local property tax (replacing it with a site value tax) and a new regional public banking system.Source

Do you support a universal basic income program? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Do you believe labor unions help or hurt the economy? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Help Source

Should pension payments be increased for retired government workers? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government provide tax incentives to private companies to keep jobs within the country? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should VAT rates be increased or decreased? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Decrease Source

Should citizens be allowed to save or invest their money in offshore bank accounts? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government add or increase tariffs on products imported into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Do you support the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No The Green Party has today reacted against the position the Irish Government are taking on TTIP. Minister Dara Murphy's assertion in Brussels today that huge financial gains were possible for Ireland do not stand up to rigorous investigation. Eamon Ryan said: "In supporting TTIP in its current form the Government are promoting an economic growth model that ignores the value of social and environmental capital. Their refusal to listen to the legitimate concerns that are being are being raised about the agreement is highly disappointing. Furthermore, it is shocking that the Labour Party are prepared to gamble with hard-won employment rights in order to further pad the bank balances of the world's biggest companies, and it only goes to show how far they have drifted from their founding principles.Source

Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government break up Amazon, Facebook and Google? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should Muslim immigrants be banned from entering the country until the government improves its ability to screen out potential terrorists? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should there be a temporary ban on all immigration into the country? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should immigrants be required to learn English? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the EU impose a quota of migrants per country? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should immigrants be required to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate a basic understanding of our country’s language, history, and government? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government provide welfare benefits to foreigners? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should immigrants be allowed to hold dual citizenship status? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should the government increase or decrease the amount of temporary work visas given to high-skilled immigrant workers? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Increase Source

Should the children of migrants who live in French territories be allowed to join their families? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should politicians be required to wait until the age of 65 to receive a pension? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should a politician, who has been formerly convicted of a crime, be allowed to run for office? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the minimum voting age be lowered? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party today called for cross-party support for a Seanad bill legislating for votes for 16 year olds at local and European elections, to be introduced today by Senators Fintan Warfield and Lynne Ruane. Speaking today, Senator Grace O’Sullivan called on Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil not to delay the bill, but to let it through to Committee Stage: “The Green Party are strong supporters of votes for 16 year olds. Research has shown that people who vote once, are much more likely to vote again after that. This bill will allow a chance for young people to develop good habits early."Source

Should corporations, unions, and non-profit organizations be allowed to donate to political parties? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: No The leader of the Green Party in Northern Ireland has called for greater transparency when it comes to political donations. Steven Agnew said all parties should make donations public. The MLA for North Down told the BBC: "One person with independent wealth could fund a political party and we would not know it. No-one out there can say it is not happening, because donations are not being made public." Mr Agnew said his party did not take corporate donations and publishes all donations over £500.Source

Should Irish citizens, living abroad and in Northern Ireland, have the right to vote in presidential elections? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party today welcomed the Taoiseach's announcement that the Government will propose a referendum to extend the right to vote in Presidential elections to citizens worldwide. Speaking this evening, the Green Party spokesperson for political reform and the party's representative in Cork North Central, Oliver Moran, said: “This is good news. It underlines the importance we attach to our diaspora and citizens in Northern Ireland. It places the President as the first among equals in the entire Irish nation, no matter where we live. “Of the nine Presidents of Ireland, two, Éamon de Valera and Erskine Childers, were born outside of Ireland, de Valera to emigrant parents. And Mary McAleese was born and raised in Northern Ireland. We are a global nation, our Presidents have reflected that. It's right that that globalism be recognised fully in our President.”Source

Should foreigners, currently residing in the United States, have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party’s answer: Yes The Green Party have already announced that it intends to propose extending Dáil voting rights to recent emigrants and EU citizens permanently resident here. The Seanad Reform Bill 2016, co-sponsored by Green Senator, Grace O'Sullivan, also proposes to extend voting rights in Seanad elections to all citizens worldwide. Mr Moran said: “I hope this will herald the start of a new phase voter rights reform. In January, we engaged in a consultation with emigrant groups and the public on extending Dáil voting rights to recent emigrants. It's time too to allow EU citizens permanently resident here have the right to vote in Dáil election.”Source

Should the Seanad be abolished? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the number of elected representatives be reduced? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should drug traffickers receive the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should the government hire private companies to run prisons? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should repeat offenders be entitled to free legal aid? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should convicted criminals have the right to vote? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: Yes Source

Should non-violent prisoners be released from jail in order to reduce overcrowding? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

Should laptops be banned on all direct flights departing from the Middle East? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party have not answered this question yet. Would you like to suggest their answer?

Should France continue to assassinate suspected terrorists in foreign countries? ^{stats discuss}

Green Party voters: No Source

What is your stance on abortion? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party’s answer: Pro-choice Labour intends to have a process leading to the repeal of the Eighth Amendment underway by this summer if it’s re-elected to government . . . The party is proposing to replace the effective ban on abortion in Ireland with legislation that would allow for terminations on the grounds of risk to life, risk to health, rape and fatal foetal abnormality.Source

Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party’s answer: Yes, as long as they pass the same background checks as straight couples The Children & Family Relationships Act represented another milestone in protecting and cherishing all family types, including those where LGBT parents are already raising children. By broadening and strengthening the State’s recognition of all family types, we have ensured better treatment for children all over the country. Labour will fully commence all sections of the Children & Family Relationships Act.Source

Do you support the legalisation of same sex marriage? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party’s answer: Same sex marriage is fine, as long as they do not do it in front of me. Source

Should terminally ill patients be allowed to end their lives via assisted suicide? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party’s answer: Yes Source

Do you support the death penalty? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party’s answer: No The retention of the death penalty was a blemish on the society it represents, said Mr Michael D. Higgins, party foreign affairs spokesman. The Labour Party launched a Yes campaign to abolish the death penalty and ratify the international Criminal...Source

Should businesses be required to have women on their board of directors? ^{stats discuss}

Labour Party voters: Yes Source

Should the military allow women to serve in combat roles? ^{stats discuss}