Conference Proceedings: Managing Change to Build a Just Society – Policy Outcomes for a New Social Contract

Ireland is going through several major transitions, each of which is only going to deepen with time. While much is changing, many of the problems facing our society are long-standing: inequality, poverty, and under-investment in our social infrastructure remain major challenges. Although the economy in Ireland has experienced record growth since the pandemic, infrastructure and services in areas such as housing, healthcare and public transport are far below the levels and standards that would be expected in a normally functioning society.

 

It is Social Justice Ireland’s contention that a new social contract is required to address the core challenges now facing society, with real citizen engagement at the core of such a contract. Social Justice Ireland’s proposals would see public policy focused on simultaneously delivering five outcomes as part of that new social contract: a vibrant economy; decent infrastructure and services; just taxation; good governance; and sustainability. Managing change effectively will allow us to harness the benefits of transition to transform both our society and our economy. All of this will require new approaches to the world of work as well as recognition of much of the work done in society that goes unpaid, under-recognised and undervalued. It will also require recognition that our tax and welfare systems are not fit for purpose in the twenty-first century. Ultimately, Social Justice Ireland argues that the social welfare system and the income tax credits system should be replaced by a Universal Basic Income which would be far more appropriate for today’s economy. A new social contract will also require that climate action be urgently prioritised; to date the policy response has been wholly inadequate. The same can be said of the ineffectual response to the current housing crisis. Investment in infrastructure and services is needed to develop a thriving economy. Likewise, just taxation is required to fund this. Good governance is needed to ensure people have a say in shaping the decisions that impact them. Finally, all Government policy must be sustainable; environmentally, economically and socially. Ultimately only social justice and the wellbeing of everybody in our country, whether born here or newly arrived, will ensure a stable, healthy, and open society. Achieving these five goals requires that we recognise that it is time for a new approach if we are to manage these transitions and deliver change.

These papers were originally presented at a conference organised by Social Justice Ireland on the theme: Managing Change to Build a Just Society – Policy Outcomes for a New Social Contract.

Watch the CONFERENCE HERE.