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So. I've always voted green and transferred left. I've been reticent to say much about the #PfG, I'm not a member, but when it first came out, I was cautiously optimistic about a landmark climate bill in particular, but more than a bit iffy that it would need FF and FG to do it.
It doesn't do enough, it's already well overdue, but I saw it as a victory for the greens to get that to the top of government business.
I think, too, that it's a great signal to other European countries too. That a fiscally rigid centre-right party could shoot for 50% reduction in emissions over such a short time span.
The international justice element is big too, where a country in the global north might actually try and honour the Paris Agreement. Lots of improvements on transport, migration (see @pidge's response here), and changes in agriculture that could link well with eu initiatives
That said, a lot of people will be left behind here in Ireland, especially when it comes to housing and homelessness. I don't think anyone would argue with that. It sucks.
I had hoped for a left wing coalition, but that wasn't where the election left us. And the volatility of the polls right now means another election is a big gamble.
It's a big decision. There's lots of risks to both outcomes, and I think each side of the argument is somewhat underestimating their own.
I'm really grateful that the green party has facilitated a debate on this, points raised by @RobinCafolla and @neasa_neasa especially have been on my mind and will be for a long time. The potential to harm to movement is very real. Especially if this new gov doesn't deliver.
I still have to come down on the yes side, even if I am a bit blue about the whole thing. I've been desperate for a potential bill like this since I started voting.
But it seems there might be a general malaise creeping into everything within the green party, because this is very scary, because so much is at stake, because there's no clear answer.
I hope whatever the result is today, that the party and its supporters don't turn on each other. We'll need a strong, united climate movement to push whatever government we end up with.
If passed, over the first 100 days, I will be watching closely. We need the CCAC overhaul that was promised, with powers to enforce sector-specific emission targets. We need the carbon fund hypothecation to work as intended and ease the pain on the most vulnerable.
We need the tax commission to deliver more progressive wealth and site taxes, to fund a just transition. And we need to hammer our green TDs to deliver. I certainly trust them a lot more than any one in FF or FG.
And that's just wrt the green party. XR, divestment, community-supported agri, community energy - I'll be looking to lend a hand wherever I can, regardless of the result.
I dunno, I'm conflicted, I'm not really looking forward to the vote today. Either decision will leave a sour taste. But I'm glad for all my friends in the green party and beyond.
If you got this far, enjoy this pic of my very very handsome dog.
