The A-Team?
Prefacing his selection, Matt says: “My choices go beyond narrow farming representation, reflecting the many and disparate challenges faced in common among urban dwellers and those of us living in rural Ireland. I will start with those outgoing MEPs who merit consideration for re-election to the European Parliament. These are just my opinions, based on my own research and personal assessment of the candidates' track records."
Agri-policy a priority for 15%
A special Eurobarometer survey carried out among Irish voters across February and March this year found that 69 per cent were interested in the upcoming European Parliament elections, which take place on June 7. However, just 15 per cent said agricultural policy should be discussed as a matter of priority during the electoral campaign, compared to 23 per cent across the EU. In relation to action against climate change, 29 per cent of Irish respondents said this was a priority, compared to 27 per cent across the EU. When asked what the EU should focus on to reinforce its position in the world, 29 per cent of respondents said food security and agriculture, compared to 30 per cent across the EU, on average. However, 33 per cent said that climate action and emissions reductions should be the focus, up nine per cent when compared to the EU, on average.
Thirty-three per cent of Irish respondents also said that the EU should focus on 'energy issues, energy independence, resources and infrastructures'.
At the time of print, the list of candidates indicating their intention to contest the European Parliament elections was almost complete. Ireland will now have 14 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), representing an increase of one since the last election. The country is divided into three electoral constituencies: Dublin; South; and Midlands North-West. At least 10 of the outgoing MEPs signalled their intention to run again. The disparate political philosophies of the candidates range from far right to far left, with a considerable number sitting somewhere around the centre of the political spectrum.
Billy has an outstanding record of representation in the European Parliament on behalf of Ireland. He has been especially strident in safeguarding Irish agricultural interests, balanced with an understanding that protection of the environment can be achieved without damaging the economic and social fabric of commercial farming. His work in protecting animal-welfare standards while also insisting on the right to export livestock from Ireland is particularly noteworthy.
Another representative from the Ireland South constituency, Seán is a former GAA president and has brought that deep understanding of the value of sporting activities across all communities in Ireland to his role as MEP. Active in the Parliament in areas as varied as the digital economy and international trade, Seán has been particularly vociferous on promoting an improved Common Agricultural Policy structure and ensuring that the Green Deal delivers economic opportunities for businesses and facilitates a Just Transition to a carbon-neutral economy.
Maria is looking for a second term in the Parliament. She has focussed on womens rights, gender diversity, vocational education training and mental health during her time as a European parliamentarian. The US-born MEP has also been active in promoting EU-US relations. She has also been vocal on the importance of supporting farmers’ mental health and wellbing, as well as ensuring that weather-impacted farmers in her constituency are helped through this difficult period.
Chris replaced Matt Carthy as an MEP in 2020 when the latter was elected as a TD. Chris is a regular commentator on farming and fishing issues, he served on the Parliament’s Agriculture Committee, among others, and has spoken on farmer concerns around the rewetting of farmland. Chris is an advocate of continuing Irish neutrality.
Now a seasoned EU parliamentarian, Luke has long been associated with the decriminalisation of cannabis. That, however, belies his advocacy around turf-cutting rights, the impact of habitat restoration on his region, and the need to reform the EU’s asylum policies.
The former TD and Minister of State for Horticulture is an architect, with a particular interest in urban planning, public transport and heritage. Ciarán has been president of the European Forum for Renewable Energy Sources, a cross-party European parliamentary network that works to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Last year he was the recipient of the Energy, Science and Research Award at the annual MEP Awards.
Finian, a former Minister of State, is running on a disability-rights platform. He also lists health and housing among his priorities, if elected to the European Parliament. He has a particularly strong volunteerism ethos, regularly giving his time towards various charities and disability groups.
Nina may have become more of a household name after participating in the Dancing with the Stars and Ireland’s Fittest Family TV shows, but she is a former champion jockey, a businesswoman, and an author who was born and raised on
a farm. The Meathwoman has said her priorities include increasing opportunities to live and work in rural Ireland, and equality of opportunity in education and work for young people. She also said she would be a strong, common sense voice in Europe for rural and farming communities.
The former short-lived agriculture minister has strong name recognition and is regarded as an able debater and public representative. Fair Deal and Just Transition for communities across the agriculture, climate and energy sectors are his priorities and mirror issues that will come increasingly to the fore in the next European Parliament.
A former RTÉ reporter, Ciaran is a committed community activist, with strong views on the need to promote rural, social and economic wellbeing. Rural development is a particular priority for him, having gained valuable experience working for Roscommon LEADER programme.
Latterly, Ciaran’s attentions have turned to local tourism and how the Just Transition Fund can support rural life.
A former ICSA general secretary, Eddie has broadened his appeal to the electorate ahead of the June election. He emphasises the need for EU structures to support family farming and small businesses in rural Ireland. The Clareman also puts mental health and disability supports among his priorities if elected.
Peadar Toibín is the leader of Aontú, a party with relatively conservative views on several social issues that resonate with a significant section of Irish society. He would provide a balance for the liberal agenda that is in the majority in the European Parliament. However, his long-term intention, it seems, is to continue as a member of Dáil Éireann.
With a business background, John knows the importance of protecting Ireland’s corporation tax regime and is conscious of the potential impacts of EU trade negotiations on Irish exports, including agri-food products.
Despite a recent misstep in relation to her referendum voting intentions, Lisa has a legal background that would be useful in scrutinising EU legislation. She is a Mayo native and should understand and promote the economic, social and environmental issues of importance to Ireland.
A comprehensive list of all candidates is available on: www.europeanmovement.ie