Political Platform: Senator Alice-Mary Higgins
Speaking with eolas Magazine, Senator Alice-Mary Higgins discusses the unique ability of independent senators to apply a broad, national focus to legislation, while maintaining an ability to work on a cross-party basis.
What inspired you to get into politics?
I was an advocate for equality and environment for many years, working with NGOs like Trócaire, the National Womens’ Council, Older and Bolder and Comhlámh. As I campaigned on issues like climate change, pensions, and care supports, I found myself focusing more and more on the links between the legislative detail and the bigger picture.
Politics is ultimately about the decisions we make on how we want to live together. I ran as a Senator because I believe we need to bring more care, creativity, and long-term thinking into policymaking if we are going to address the social and environmental challenges of our time.
What has been your proudest achievement in politics?
It is hard to choose, because I am passionate about a lot of things. In my first Oireachtas term I helped strengthen laws on data protection and domestic violence and introduced legislation to place quality at the centre of public procurement. That bill has now passed all stages in the Seanad and some of the ideas in it are being taken up.
In my second Oireachtas term, I proposed a transformative bill to update the mandates of Coillte and Bord na Móna to focus on ‘environmental, social and economic sustainability’, not just commercial returns. I am also proud to be a co-sponsor of the Occupied Territories Bill and the Arms Embargo Bill. I believe Ireland should be a really strong voice for peace, human rights, and international law.
Who do you admire in politics or public life?
In the Oireachtas, I admire parliamentarians from many different parties, including Jennifer Whitmore, Lynn Boylan, Rebecca Moynihan and Neasa Hourigan, and my own colleagues in the Civil Engagement Group – Senators Lynn Ruane, Frances Black, and Eileen Flynn – do amazing work. I also have an admiration for those who connect campaigns on the street with detailed policy advocacy, be they brilliant young climate activists or trade union members campaigning to raise standards.
“The Seanad has historically been a space for minority voices, and it has often led social change in areas like contraception or LGBT+ rights.”
Senator Alice-Mary Higgins
Why did you choose to be an independent politician?
I think as an independent Senator, I have been able to contribute in a way that feels authentic. I am free to take a stand and raise issues that might not otherwise get attention while also working effectively on a cross-party basis. I have won 70 amendments and changes to law through constructive collaboration with civil society and members of all parties and none.
What is different about the role of a Senator compared to that of a TD?
As a Senator you have a national constituency and a more thematic focus. One interesting difference is that in the Dáil committee stage of a bill, where most amendments are made, is usually debated by just a few TDs from a relevant committee, whereas in the Seanad, every bill from every department must go through the whole house and every senator gets to debate and vote. That means the Seanad can often join the dots in a different way.
The Seanad has historically been a space for minority voices, and it has often led social change in areas like contraception or LGBT+ rights. However, reform is needed, and I believe everyone should have a vote in Seanad elections.
What are your interests outside of work?
I have an 18-month-old child and that has certainly had an impact on how I spend my time. I have always been interested and involved in theatre and the arts and I love to dance. Having grown up in Galway, I also love swimming in the sea at any time of year.
