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The Irish Coalition for Business and Human Rights (ICBHR)

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What is the global problem?

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What is the global problem?

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What is the global problem?

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Why do we need new laws?

  • Abuses to human rights and the environment are widespread�
  • Voluntary approaches haven’t worked�
  • Companies hide behind global supply chains

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Why do we need new laws?

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  • Complex legally for survivors to take cases across borders�
  • Ireland is important as a hub for multinationals�
  • Public support : 81% of Irish people want stronger laws on corporate abuses�

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What would Corporate Accountability Legislation actually do?

Prevention

Human rights and environmental due diligence

Identify and prevent �human rights abuses & environmental damage

Accountability

Across global supply chains

Financial penalties

Communities can sue Irish company for damages

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Critical loopholes

    • Landmark shift away from voluntary measures

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    • Companies legally responsible for actions of subsidiaries

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    • Communities will be able to take cases

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    • Stronger than French & German laws�
    • Climate obligations included�
    • Big Irish companies will be covered:��ESB, Tullow Oil, Primark, CRH, Total Produce (Fyffes), Smurfit Kappa, Airbnb Ireland, Apple Ireland, Facebook Ireland �

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Critical loopholes

    • Fewer than 700 Irish companies will be included �
    • Dangerous Loopholes�
    • Barriers to access to justice not addressed�
    • Weak on gender & protection of human rights defenders

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    • 18+ months ahead for further potential weakening!

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Minister of State

Robert Troy