The need for a new "ecological social paradigm" - President Higgins on Rethinking Economics

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Social Justice Ireland was delighted to attend the President's seminar on Rethinking Economics.  Featuring guest speakers Professor Mariana Mazzucato from University College London and Professor Ian Gough from the London School of Economics, the seminar was a timely opportunity to move away from traditional economic thought and to consider a new way of thinking that ensures the welfare of all, and our environment, is prioritised.  The President challenged the current economic discourse and presented a vision for Europe in which "the innovative state provides excellent public services, services that are not viewed as a cost to society, but an investment in our communities."

Social Justice Ireland has, for a long time, advocated for the State to invest in decent public services - healthcare, education and so on, and to make space for real deliberative democracy and active participation in decision-making.  The Rethinking Economics was the start of a new conversation, and one we look forward to continuing into the future.

The full text of the President's speech, videos and presentations from the seminar are available on the President's website HERE.