Waterford Green Party TD Marc O'Cathsaigh has proposed establishing an Ombudsman to act as a guardian for the interest of future generations in Ireland.
It's part of a wider proposal to create an independent Commission for Future Generations.
Deputy O'Cathsaigh introduced a Private Member's Bill on the matter in the Dáil this week and, speaking to WLR, outlined what's involved.
"Really what it's about is helping to make decisions that are in the longer term rather than short term decision making that we often get in politics where people are looking to the next crisis or next general election," he said.
At the moment, decisions are made without thinking far ahead into the future.
Deputy O'Cathsaigh believes it will help address overall quality of life across health, environmental, social and economic areas.
"I think there's always been an appetite among the public that we make these decisions in the longer term," he said.
He outlined an example of where such a move has already had benefits.
He believes people's mindset is changing in relation to delivering for future generations - and points to Wales as an example.
Deputy O'Cathasaigh said he hosted Sophie Howe, the Welsh Future Generations Commissioner, in Leinster House where the two discussed the benefits the Commission has had on Wales.
"Wales established an office for the Commission of the Future Generations which has been very powerful in informing government policy and government decision making and making sure they're applying that longer term vision," he said.
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