Speeches

Mr President, Ireland joined the EU in 1973, forever changing our country for the better, economically and socially. We have graduated from being a benefactor to a contributor and we are proud to do so, as the rising tide lifts all boats. Having benefited hugely from being a part of this Union, we embraced enlargement of the EU – provided, of course, that candidate countries share our values and meet the necessary conditions of membership. The EU was founded on respect for democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. Earlier this week, we debated the rule of law crisis with the Polish Prime Minister. It should be clear to all that EU membership comes with not only far-reaching benefits, but also responsibilities. Discussions with our close neighbours in the Western Balkans have been ongoing for some time now. I warmly welcome the Slovenian Presidency’s efforts to ensure these discussions progress in a meaningful way. Progress is both in the interests of the citizens of the Western Balkans and in the strategic interest of the EU, and offers the perfect antidote to Brexit. It is positive to see the Western Balkan countries renew their commitments at the Western Balkans Summit, to carry out necessary reforms to closer align to EU standards. Each is at a different stage of the journey, and it’s important that EU support and dialogue continues while tangible progress is being made. It was good to see the cooperation between the EU and the Western Balkans in the face of the COVID-19 crisis. Three million doses have been provided to the Western Balkans, with more to come. The EU is the region’s closest partner and principal donor, and I look forward to the strengthening of relations and, most importantly, the setting of a projected accession date for these countries of great potential.

Mr President, the UN climate summit in Glasgow is just around the corner, and it is disappointing to hear that expectations for progress are low, even in the year when the effects of climate change are so apparent. We’ve seen floods, hurricanes, wildfires and killer heatwaves growing in frequency and intensity with spiralling impacts on economies and societies. The cost of adaptation in the future will far exceed the cost of action now. This is why the green transition is fundamental for our future economic development. The key word here is ‘transition’. This must be managed responsibly, but it cannot be used as a means to reduce ambition to serve short-term interests. Too often, this is the case with national governments. The European Union was critical in building the coalition needed to conclude the Paris Agreement in 2015, which I was honoured to attend on behalf of Parliament. Success in Glasgow may again depend on EU leadership. We all took hope from the accomplishment in Paris but, tragically, annual global greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. At this point, we were supposed to come back and increase ambition. Instead, we do not see the global political will for a variety of reasons. We’ve discussed at length the deepening energy crisis, and with hostility between the US and China, the two top greenhouse gas emitters, the EU must ensure it takes the lead in Glasgow. Europe must act, but Europe must not act alone. The other big emitters must step up to the plate.

Madam President, we often say in the EU that the future is green and digital, but we cannot take these transformations for granted. Therefore, I was pleased to see both issues high on the agenda of the Council once again. The recent rise in energy prices is, of course, of huge concern. This is a global problem, but Europe has been particularly exposed due to a combination of factors. We must reach the EU’s 2030 goal of cutting emissions by 55%. That is without question. But, in the meantime, the lights must stay on. That means diversifying our gas supply immediately, something my country, Ireland, may need to revisit, and something rightly articulated by President Ursula von der Leyen here this morning. In delivering our climate targets, we must ensure the transition to clean energy is as smooth as possible in terms of energy costs and security. Increased energy efficiency and accelerated deployment of renewables will be key in this regard. While the vital role the digital world has to play in communications, education and business is clear, with other areas it is less obviously relevant. It has been very positive, therefore, to see the wide—ranging impact of the digital transformation being recognised in the work of Parliament through the mainstreaming of digitalisation across our policy work.

Mr President, I empathise with disillusioned Polish citizens who have bravely taken to the streets in protest at the actions of the Polish Government and repeated here today by you, Mr Prime Minister. It affects us all. Comparisons to the German Constitutional Court are being used as a smokescreen. In real terms, what you are saying is that the executive in Poland is above the judiciary. Correct me if I’m wrong, Prime Minister, but as a loyal member of the EU, as you have recently said, how can this mean your government believes in the rule of law? The simple fact is that by declaring cherry-picked articles of the EU treaty incompatible with the Polish Constitution, you stand over a direct challenge to the unity of the European legal order. Your country receives four times more from the European budget that you put in – about EUR 16 billion. My country and others are net contributors. Ponder that Mr Prime Minister, because they might get tired of your antics.

Mr President, April 2021 marks the 27th year since the Rwandan genocide, one of the first genocide atrocities in history. I’m appalled to see the steady increase of repression and blatant disregard for human life exhibited by the government of Rwanda. The trial and recent sentencing of Rwanda critic and political opponent Paul Rusesabagina is emblematic of the government’s manipulation of the justice system and verifies that the ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front continues to target those perceived as a threat to the government. Paul Rusesabagina has been a vocal critic of the President of Rwanda, an action not unlike a death sentence for politicians or opposition candidates. I call for increased dialogue with Rwanda to put greater emphasis on respect for human rights and the rule of law. The Rwandan government must honour its obligations under the Cotonou Agreement, which specifies that respect for human rights is an essential element of EU-ACP cooperation. Rusesabagina has always denied any involvement in the attacks for which he’s been tried, and his trial has been riddled with irregularities and evidence of political interference. Every person accused of a crime should have their guilt or innocence determined by a fair and effective legal process. In the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide, the world undertook never to turn aside again as similar crimes against humanity transpired. We must honour this commitment. We must continue to fight for fairness for Paul Rusesabagina.

Mr President, the events of 1 February this year turned the clock back on the steady process of democratic transition in Myanmar. Since the coup, as the authors have pointed out, an estimated 1 120 people have been killed, including at least 75 children. Military authorities have arrested over 8 000 people, including hundreds of politicians, activists and civil servants. The human rights record in Myanmar is appalling, and the violence and human rights violations committed by the armed forces against ethnic and religious minorities is deeply concerning. Myanmar is home to around 135 major ethnic groups, who are constantly discriminated against. The Rohingya people, for instance, have faced decades of discrimination and repression, which my colleagues have strongly condemned in the number of resolutions over the years. I welcome the recent sanctions imposed by the Council against members of the military and their enterprises. However, we in Europe must continue to send strong messages of support and solidarity to the citizens in Myanmar, who long for a democratic future for their country. These sanctions must be expanded. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political detainees, including journalists. The democratic elections of November 2020 must be fully respected and the civilian government immediately reappointed. The military junta has replaced democracy with its authoritarianism: relative peace with a brutal reign of terror. In partnership with the UN and ASEAN, we must redouble our efforts to bring this repressive and callous junta to an end.

Madam President, understanding the future of energy systems is extremely challenging, and as policy makers, we must not sell simpler narratives to win public support. We have a responsibility to every citizen to work in their best interests, and that means switching to clean energy – but it also means keeping the lights on in the meantime with transitional fuels. The solution is the accelerated deployment of renewables and improved energy efficiency to reduce reliance on volatile markets. How Europe handles the energy transition will not just determine our economic future, but it will determine the very social cohesion of the entire Union. We cannot allow a situation where the most vulnerable are left with rising energy costs, nor can we strangle our economy as we equip ourselves with green energy. Member States must pay particular attention to those in danger of energy poverty. Permitting requirements and incentive schemes for renewable energy are dealt with at national level and Member States must do more to fast track positive energy projects. In Ireland, this is a major problem, and I call on the government to ensure that renewable projects procedures are streamlined, particularly offshore wind, and sufficient attention paid to grid development so that this energy can be utilised. By their very nature, wind and solar are intermittent. Yes, the future is green, but this future will only be reached if we allow for a sensible transition.

Mr President, last May, the European Union took a strong stance against the Lukashenka regime when we imposed a package of sanctions on him. Now, he wants to put pressure on us as a revenge. We awarded the Sakharov Prize to the democratic opposition in Belarus in 2020. We have a responsibility to the winners of this award. We are not going to surrender to Lukashenka. The opposition in Belarus has shown great confidence, resilience and enthusiasm. But in particular, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has a special place in the hearts of the Irish people. Sviatlana spent three summers in County Tipperary as a teenager, and visited us again last summer, as leader of the democratic opposition in Belarus. I would also like to mention the case of Artsiom Miadvedski, a political prisoner who adopted me. Miadvedski and the other 700 political prisoners should be released.

Mr President, Europe and the United States have always been allies, but it is no secret that, under Donald Trump, with the US acting more unilaterally, this friendship became much more difficult manage. With President Biden, a man who believes in multilateral solutions, there is a renewed sense of hope for improved relations. The US is in the process of redefining itself on the international stage, and the EU must take this new approach into consideration as we move forward, working together on areas of common interest, not just about deepening trade, but also on defending democratic principles, human rights, cooperation on cybersecurity and, of course, the planet’s greatest challenge: climate change. I agree with increased interparliamentary cooperation in particular in this regard, but we must also stand firm on matters of importance to Europeans. Lastly, we are now entering a crucial phase with the Northern Ireland Protocol and we heard yesterday the brash words at the Tory Party conference. However, it has heartened me to hear the strong words from President Biden on the protocol. An Irishman never forgets his roots, and Joe Biden is very proud of his Irish roots. Maith thú, Joe.

President, as President Ursula von der Leyen said yesterday, a year ago we did not know when COVID-19 vaccines would be available, or even if we would be able to develop ones at all. But thanks to EU research, collaboration and funding, today we have a very successful vaccination campaign, and we have shared half of the vaccines we have produced with the rest of the world. Of course, the EU and the Commission deserve high praise. In Ireland, over 90% of adults are fully vaccinated. This is very high, even compared to the European average. According to the Chair of the Irish Task Force on COVID-19 Vaccination, the reason we have so high rates is because of high quality information, trust in public health advice, and a scholarly population. Therefore, public doubt about vaccination is not a major problem. As my colleagues have said, transparency is very important. If people know clearly about the work the EU has done to tackle the pandemic, they will understand when they are hearing fake news from the Eurosceptics. If they have accurate knowledge about the results of COVID-19 clinical trials, they will be able to make the right decision. I know that vaccines cannot be found so easily in other countries. So, does the Commission know whether vaccines are being wasted in Member States or are outdated? Does he have anything to do with this? Thank you to my friend Dolors for raising this topic and asking the questions.

Madam President, Kenya’s Kakuma camp is currently a permanent home to more than 200 000 refugees and asylum seekers, coming mainly from the border regions plagued by conflict and growing instability. The camp provides a safe haven for many people forcibly displaced from their countries as a result of persecution, human rights violations, conflict, etc. It has notably served as a place of refuge to many members of the LGBTIQ+ community, who may face the death penalty in their own countries – an appalling vista in this day and age. However, in Kakuma, temporary living circumstances have morphed into permanent ones, with no mechanism for review or change. With appalling living conditions, substandard housing, poor roads, inadequate water and poor sanitation, the camp is not a sustainable long-term solution to the displacement of people, nor was it ever meant to be. The Kenyan Government has made several attempts in recent years to close the camp. However, with various solutions pursued, it is essential that protection services for asylum seekers and refugees are provided. It is essential that protection services for asylum seekers and human rights are upheld. Failure to establish and follow a carefully planned roadmap to closure would lead to an all-out humanitarian disaster. Following a two-week ultimatum from the Kenyan Government to the UNHCR, Kenya has formally committed to closing the camp by June 2022. The Government plans to voluntarily integrate refugees back into their countries of origin in safety and dignity. However, in doing so, the root cause of this displacement needs to be addressed, and that is the crisis and conflict in the region. The EU must recommit to prioritising timely conflict prevention, mediation and dialogue on the continent. Cooperation between Kenya and its neighbouring countries needs to be reinforced on political, security, humanitarian and development issues. In 2022, the EU has allocated EUR 14 million in funding for humanitarian projects in Kenya, mainly for assisting refugees. Other EU resources that support Kenya, such as the European Development Fund and the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, need to be focused on development objectives. The implementation of a roadmap on the next steps to ensure the humane management of refugees from the camp is vital. However, the bigger issue of regional stability must be dealt with urgently. I urge the EU to step up its efforts as a mediating partner in support of sustainable and long-term socio-economic development in the region. Cooperation on peace and security challenges is an essential aspect of the relationship between the EU and Africa.

Madam President, although the United Arab Emirates (UAE) portrays itself as a tolerant and rights-respecting country, the plight of Ahmed Mansoor, the country’s most celebrated human rights activist, portrays a different image. Ahmed Mansoor is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for posts on social media about human rights violations. He has been confined to an isolation cell since his arrest, deprived of basic necessities and denied his rights as a prisoner under international human rights law, to which the UAE claims to adhere. Ahmed Mansoor is part of a long list of so-called prisoners of conscience in the UAE, imprisoned for exercising their legitimate freedom to speak out against the government. The EU and the UAE have developed a strong diplomatic relationship centred on common political and regional interests. That’s good. However, regular dialogue between the EU, its Member States and the UAE on the issue of human rights must also be upheld. The UAE is the first country in the Gulf region with which the EU set up a comprehensive dialogue on human rights. It is imperative that the EU continue to monitor the human rights situation in the country and consistently address judicial developments and the UAE authorities at various levels. Meaningful human rights targets must be adopted and a list of individual cases made public in order to foster a genuine and results-based discussion on human rights during the EU’s dialogue with the UAE. Although the country has made some strides in recent years to improve its human rights record and portray itself as a modern, progressive, tolerant and rights-based nation, the case of Ahmed Mansoor is utterly disappointing and affirms that there is a long way to go to truly achieve this recognition.

Madam President, congratulations to the President of the Commission on a very fine speech: one hour in duration during which she didn’t drop a note, so to speak. I think it is only right that you should refer to COVID—19 and the successful vaccine deployment in the EU, the need to be prepared for future pandemics, and the EU’s help to third countries. I was also encouraged to hear your words on digitalisation, semiconductors and the carbon-neutral economy. I noticed you never mentioned the ‘B’ word – Brexit: perhaps an intelligent omission, and a message in itself. But as the only Irish MEP speaking in this debate, I would like to take this opportunity to praise the steady, practical and mature approach taken by you, by the Commission, and especially the diligent and ongoing work of Vice—President Šefčovič, negotiating and finalising our future relationship with the UK. The EU must create mechanisms to engage with civil society and political structures in Northern Ireland to ensure that the protocol works, and I know we’ll have your full support for that, Madam President. When appropriate, I intend to lead a trade delegation of MEPs to Northern Ireland to hear the views of those on the ground, those who are actually affected. We have a responsibility to listen and to try to solve the problems, and we must not take this responsibility lightly. Finally, a pet theme of mine: daylight savings. President Juncker tried to end this outmoded practice – perhaps you could finalise that.

Mr President, I would like to open my remarks by thanking the rapporteur, Pascal Arimont, for the diligent and more importantly balanced and fair approach to this very important file. The objective of the Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) is of course to provide financial support to the most affected Member States, regions and sectors to deal with the adverse consequences of Brexit. It will also help communities and businesses cope with the increased costs of trade and lost income as a result of the United Kingdom’s departure from the single market. Ireland is the most impacted Member State by Brexit and rightly is the largest beneficiary owing to the sense of fairness with which the fund has been managed. Brexit is about barriers and borders, and this is plain to see. As we continue down a strained path with our friends on the other side of the Irish Sea, it is important that we show solidarity with those most affected and to mitigate the economic consequences of Brexit. Solidarity is at the very core of this fund, as Pascal pointed out, and it is also satisfying that payments can begin imminently. BAR is the star of Brexit.

Mr President, I thank the Commissioner for her fine speech. While the Blue Card Directive does not unfortunately apply in my home country of Ireland, I’m nevertheless glad to have an opportunity to join the discussion on this proposal and on how we can make the EU a more attractive destination for highly-skilled third-country nationals. In order to reaffirm and implement our commitment to a green and digital future, we are investing in educating children and upskilling adults in these areas to ensure that we have a competitive workforce. Attracting third-country nationals who are highly-skilled in ICT and other areas, as the Commissioner pointed out, in which we currently have a skills gap, will complement our efforts. This proposal marks a positive step forward in making the Blue Card scheme more attractive for a number of reasons. An important one is that the criteria for admission and the procedures to follow have been clarified and therefore made much more user-friendly. This makes it easier for third—country nationals to learn about the scheme and for EU employers to recruit through it. The EU’s ageing population poses a risk that skill shortages will increase in the future. Let’s act now and ensure that the EU retains its top class workforce so that the EU remains competitive as a great location for talented and ambitious people, male and female, to find exciting and rewarding careers in a continent devoid of warfare and perpetual danger, and richer in diversity than any area in the world.

Mr President, with the ‘Fit for 55’ package, we now stand over the largest single batch of legislation to tackle climate change proposed by any government anywhere. After years of discussing climate change as a problem for the future, it has now slowly crept upon us with increases in devastating wildfires, floods and storms, as well as severe consequences to the natural world and the flora and fauna it houses. I firmly believe that an orderly transition across the energy sector is pivotal for the cohesiveness of the EU, especially in the medium term. This includes ensuring the security of fuel and electricity supplies, minimising stranded assets and making sure ambition is married with practicality and sustainable economic viability. This will require an innovation-centric approach, promoting and developing and, most importantly, investing in the technologies that bring us closer towards a decarbonised economy. The creation of a more circular economy will reduce pressure on natural resources and would create sustainable growth and jobs. As rapporteur for the Implementation Report on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, it has been made abundantly clear to me that reaching our climate targets without decarbonising our living and working spaces is frankly impossible. Buildings are responsible for 36% of greenhouse gas emissions and 40% of the energy consumption in the EU. We cannot reach our targets without tackling this as well.

Mr President, Ireland being an island, is very dependent on, and indeed grateful to, our two main airlines – Ryanair and Aer Lingus. Indeed, as is the case across the EU, many jobs and livelihoods depend on them. Therefore, the drop in air traffic by over 66% which we’ve experienced since the start of the pandemic must be met with a comprehensive action plan to help the aviation industry soar back into the skies once again. In light of these challenges, I welcome that the Commission has put forward a number of emergency measures, such as rolling out the digital green certificate, decreasing slot usage thresholds for airlines and providing guidelines on COVID—19 testing and quarantine for air passengers. The EU is listening to industry voices who are asking for greater understanding and support. Moving forward from COVID—19, it is important to remember that we can take positive steps to encourage investment in the green transition. We can increase the long—term resilience of the aviation industry by making firm level of support decisions contingent on environmental improvements. This will allow the EU to address the issue of sustainability along the whole aviation value chain, including among aircraft manufacturers and airports. The digital COVID certificate is a welcome first step for the aviation industry, in what I hope will be a package of measures to continue to facilitate the exercise of free movement for all our citizens across the European Union. The aviation industry can emerge, and must emerge, from the pandemic both cleaner, greener and stronger.

Mr President, animal welfare can often be overlooked, but I am pleased to say that this is not the case in the European Parliament. Last month, we passed a resolution calling for a ban on the use of cages in animal agriculture by 2027. This was in response to ‘End the cage age’, a European Citizens’ Initiative. Some 1.4 million citizens signed it and we responded in kind. For nearly 30 years, the EU has been committed to reducing the use of and improving the welfare of animals in science. Since 2009, the marketing of any cosmetic products containing animal-tested ingredients have been banned in the EU. Considering that Europe’s cosmetic products market is the biggest in the world, it’s clear that this was a significant step in the promotion of animal welfare. The 2010 EU directive on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes promotes the three Rs: (1) replacing animal experiments wherever possible; (2) reducing the number of animals used and (3) refining experiments to minimise the impact on animals. This directive also notes that the final goal is full replacement for procedures on live animals for scientific and educational purposes as soon as it is scientifically possible to do so. While the progress made on the three Rs is most welcome, unfortunately, we are not yet close to reaching the final goal and the number of animals being used in research, regulatory testing and education remains high. Thankfully, new developments have been made, the advancement in animal models and these are very relevant because they are human-relevant and therefore present an opportunity for more accurate data. A comprehensive approach will accelerate the transition away from animal testing.

Mr President, when Hong Kong’s largest pro-democracy paper, Apple Daily, was forced to announce its closure, a chilling message was sent to the people regarding the freedom of expression, as well as a blow to media freedom in the city. Let us not forget the valuable role played by the media. Freedom of the press is vital for informing citizens about public affairs and monitoring the actions of governments at all levels. Yes, we all may get frustrated by the opinions and actions of some journalists at times, but as a whole, they’re a necessity for a free and just society, and they should be protected. I would therefore like to join the calls for the Hong Kong authorities to release all detained journalists, as well as all peaceful protesters, activists and political representatives, the charges against whom appear to be purely political. Several months ago, we spoke in this Chamber about the unilateral introduction of national security legislation by the government in Beijing and what that would mean for the city of Hong Kong’s autonomy, rule of law and the integrity of one country, two systems. Unfortunately, since then we’ve continued to see a deterioration in the situation of human rights in Hong Kong. The strict application of the national security legislation, the erosion of rights and the increased crackdown on any dissent prevents a relationship of trust between China and the EU, undermines future cooperation and leads to further erosion of Beijing’s credibility on the international stage. I would also like to take this opportunity to once again mention the case of Richard O'Halloran, whose case has been spearheaded here by my colleague Barry Andrews. Richard is an Irish citizen and father of four from Dublin, who has been refused permission to exit China since March 2019. I sincerely hope that there can be a resolution to this case as soon as possible. We stand with Hong Kong.

The death penalty is imposed on more people per capita in Iran than in any other country in the world. This is true and the truth is very true. Doctor Djalali, who is from Sweden and Iran, is currently in prison until his execution – although he did not have a fair trial and there is evidence that he was tortured to acknowledgment. I urge the Iranian authorities to abolish the death penalty, release the Djalali Doctrine, and stop the death threats they are making towards his family. Last December, we called here in Parliament on the Iranian authorities to release Sakharov Prize laureate Nasrin Sotoudeh from prison. Unfortunately, the situation has not improved so far. It is time for Iran to find a positive and fair solution through the doctor’s case – freeing him and Nasrin. Let Djalali soar. Let Djalali be free.

Mr President, ponder this: Poland and Hungary are the biggest beneficiaries of European funding. In 2018, Poland paid in EUR 3.98 billion and, in return, received EUR 16.35 billion, four times more than they paid in. Hungary paid in EUR 1.076 billion and received six times more than that, EUR 6.298 billion. At least the Portuguese Presidency moved forward on the Article 7 suspension procedure by organising hearings on Hungary and Poland. It is my hope that this will provide a sufficient basis to stop the rule of law backsliding in these and, potentially, other Member States. Without respect for the rule of law, we cannot have a fair and just society. With regard to Poland, we see major issues with the Constitutional Tribunal, the disciplinary regime against judges and a muzzle law against judges who criticise the Government’s judicial overhaul and the dismissal of judges. In bullyboy Viktor Orbán’s Hungary, attacks against LGBTI people, judges, journalists, academics and activists have increased since the beginning of the pandemic. Hungary’s new law will have devastating effects. It means that vulnerable young people will be deprived of important support. It is essential that young people especially be ensured access to comprehensive sexuality and relationship education, which is non—judgmental and objective. The adopted law is a direct contradiction of the values and respect for human dignity on which the Union is founded. There are conditionality clauses in relation to European funding. We should use them.