Speeches

A Uachtaráin, this might be a bit late, but this is a very important topic. And indeed the European Union deserves huge credit for the amount of development and humanitarian aid it is giving right around the world. It is not recognised enough and we don’t announce it enough. Having said that, as the rapporteur Zorrinho said, we can do more and particularly in the context of the next MFF, an increased percentage both, I think, from Member States themselves in their budgets and from the MFF at European level would be a very good thing to do. And especially if we can get own resources for the European Union, especially through CBAM, ETS, etc. Then that would facilitate more aid in this regard. We should also press as much as we can for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, so that the unfortunate people there can be helped immediately. And not forgetting Afghanistan, which is often not mentioned because of all the other areas around the world.

A Uachtaráin, I have great admiration for Finland, who have historically had to stand up to Russia, and did so successfully, and now are doing the same in this unfortunate situation. Russia tried to stop them from joining NATO, they didn’t bow to them, and now they’re using another method to undermine Finland. But thankfully Finland are again responding in a humane manner, but also in a strong manner to defend their independence and their border. We cannot allow a situation where either Belarus or Russia dictate to the European Union who is going to come in here and who is not. And particularly, as some colleagues from Finland said, we need to speak strongly with the transit countries who are facilitating this horrible exploitation by war criminal Putin on these unfortunate people. And the message has to go out loud and clear to Putin: no matter what he tries, the European Union – 27 Member States, no matter what part of the EU we come from, East or West – we are not going to be bullied by Putin.

A Uachtaráin, Commissioner, two years ago, during the Conference on the Future of Europe, EU citizens demanded comprehensive EU reform, with some of the most ambitious proposals requiring changes to the EU Treaties. Since the Treaty of Lisbon, much has changed in the world, and the EU has faced a multitude of crises: we had the financial crisis, the pandemic, the migration crisis, a growing climate emergency, the war in Ukraine and now the conflict in Israel and Palestine. This begs the question of how to make the EU more efficient and strengthen its capacity to act, while also making the system more democratic. On the other hand, there is the question of enlargement, which is firmly back on the agenda and has become even more evident with the Russian war against Ukraine. The commitment to enlargement is a necessity, but it is also an opportunity to implement changes to make the EU enlargement-ready. Since an EU with 20 plus Member States will not function the same as 27 Member States. Ireland will clearly have difficulties with some of the proposals. We have a constitutional bar on participating in any decision to establish an EU defence union, and we are cautious about qualified-majority voting. Nevertheless, we all can see how unashamedly and selfishly Viktor Orbán has exploited everything to do with unanimity voting, and this tool cannot continue. We need to use the full limits of what we can do within the Treaties and/or by changing the Treaties, if necessary.

In 14 years in Parliament, this is only the second time I have availed of blue-cards. So I have a question for you. You said we were useless, that we were getting paid to do nothing, that we were ineffective. How would you classify yourself and what are you getting paid for?

A Uachtaráin, I come from Killarney. My native town is the tourist capital of Ireland and I am very pleased to see reference to it by my colleague here today. There is a very active TidyTowns Committee there, including, I am pleased to say, my wife, people like Johnny McGuire, Carmel Foley, Padraig Tracey, Louise Byrne and former Councillor Mick Gleeson. They saw that in Ireland, the 200 million coffee cups in a population of 5 million were being used every year. The majority of these were not recycled, were not even composted, they went to landfill, and they said they do something about it. In the local community, over 50 businesses and growing are now having a cup which is reusable, which they all adhere to, saving a lot in terms of waste and particularly giving a good example to society at large. Those cups which were up until now used for 13 minutes of their lifespan. This can be reused and honoured as they go along. I think there is a huge example here that people themselves, even if there is no legislation, will do something which has benefited to society and benefits particularly in eliminating waste.

Mr President, I would like to commend the Rapporteur Daniel Caspary and Commissioner Dombrovskis for advancing this free trade compromise. It's time for us because we haven't done one in a long time. And if we can't do one with New Zealand, which country could we have a free trade compromise with? I was fortunate to be in Australia and New Zealand a year ago with the Trade Committee during these talks and we were particularly welcomed by the Ambassador from the EU to New Zealand and it was clear that everyone, especially the indigenous people, Maori, was eager for this free trade compromise. And why would you be against it? If trade between the two sides grows by thirty percent as soon as this free trade enters, we should accept it. I am pleased that it is progressing and hopefully we will have more before the end of this period.

A Uachtaráin, we would like to have one letter or word added to the title here: ‘strengthening the CO2 emission performance targets – and support – for new heavy-duty vehicles’. Because if the targets are to be met, you have to have support. Recently I attended the Irish Road Haulage Association dinner in my hometown of Killarney. It was quite clear that the industry is committed to reducing emissions and being more sustainable. And indeed, there were many vehicles on display at the conference showing the way of the future. But for long and heavy-duty vehicles, it's probably biofuels or something, not electrification, as of now. Obviously in cities and towns, electrification is possible, but again, especially for buses, et cetera, what is needed is support. And the support is simple: affordable, accessible, plenty of them – charging points. If we put the support in place, then the targets can be met. Not without it.

A Uachtaráin, I think, as a result of all the legislation we have passed in this mandate, many farmers feel sometimes under attack and certainly not appreciated. And that’s a pity, because many are making huge efforts to farm sustainably and reduce their carbon footprint. For instance, in Ireland, the targets in the Pesticides Directive have already been met and farmers should have great credit for that. But on the broader front, I think what we really need to do is to put more money and effort into research, so that there will be alternatives in place before we introduce bans. Putting the cart before the horse is not the way to do business, and if we do it the other way around, then we will ensure that farmers incomes are protected, food security is guaranteed, and we won’t be importing from places that haven’t the same restrictions as we have.

Madam President, in the aftermath of COP27, where progress and setbacks were laid bare, our attention is now sharply focused on the imminent COP28 and the pressing matter of climate finance. First and foremost, the pivotal role played by the European Union in UN climate talks must be recognised and persist in the upcoming discussions in Dubai. The question at the forefront remains: Who will bear the financial burden and how soon? Some progress has been made. Recognising the unique vulnerabilities of many nations is crucial, in particular those susceptible to extreme weather events such as in the Caribbean. We are emphasising the urgent need for increased climate financing. Such financing is not just an investment in environmental resilience, it is a fundamental step towards achieving social and economic stability. It is imperative that developed countries follow through on their commitments, and that includes China and the US. Failure to do so risks exacerbating global instability and reopening discussions on historical responsibility and compensation, precisely at a time when increased international cooperation is vital. Secondly, trade has too often been the missing link when responding to the climate crisis. Therefore I welcome the fact that it is part of the agenda at COP28. So I look forward to a successful COP28 and hopefully that the usual people who are always criticising everything won’t be getting the headlines afterwards.

A Uachtaráin, in principle, I am a great believer in own resources for the EU. I think it is a good thing. It means less direct taxation from Member States and that in itself will get rid of some of the populism we hear so often about Europe taking money from taxpayers directly from the Member States. Own resources, especially in relation to ETS and CBAM, makes absolute sense, and it is essential to strengthen the Union and also create a sense of unity across the European Union, because we need that at this present time. People are always looking for more and more money from the EU, but at the same time, they are saying that they should not be paying into it, that someone else should pay for it. Well, by getting the own resources, this certainly will make it easier and particularly to pay back the debt in relation to COVID. I would like to compliment Commissioner Hahn, my friends and colleagues, José Manuel Fernandes, Siegfried Mureșan and others, who have done great work on this, and that is something that we will continue to do to get in accommodation with all Member States.

Mr President, I am pleased to say a little bit about this report, thank you Mr President. I voted for this proposal as it seeks to update the Euro emission standards to introduce more stringent air pollutant emission limits for internal combustion engine vehicles sold in the EU, with a view to meeting the European Green Deal’s zero pollution ambition – very important for the environment and for people’s health – while at the same time keeping vehicles affordable for consumers and, very importantly, also promoting Europe’s competitiveness. In line with my previous position on the regulation on CO2 standards for cars and vans, I did not support the inclusion of carbon-neutral fuels and biofuels into the legislation. Introducing such provisions as would weaken the ambitions of the file further, and could bring confusion and uncertainty to the market.

A Uachtaráin, Commissioner Šefčovič, I condemn the reprehensible acts committed by Hamas against innocent civilians. Their actions are without justification and their bloodlust has only brought devastation to their own community, whom they say they represent. Israel does have the right to defend itself, but this is not a blank cheque. The mass bombing of civilians is not the answer. The welfare of our citizen, 8-year-old Emily Hand, is still unknown after she was taken hostage by Hamas. I call for her immediate release. In addition, there are around 40 Irish citizens still trapped in Gaza. Humanitarian corridors need to be opened immediately to allow people to flee the constant threat of bombing and allow the wounded and sick to receive treatment. I do not really care about the linguistic semantics – what I want is for the killing and violence to stop. The two-state solution is not just a matter for justice for Palestinians, but also an imperative for Israel’s own security and future. Every responsible politician must work to bring this about. This is how we got peace in Northern Ireland. This is the model for peace in the Middle East.

A Uachtaráin, there is growing concern over the ageing of European farmers. So I was happy to vote for this resolution as it emphasises the need for robust policies to support young and new entrants to the farming industry. Young farmers can be the catalyst for innovation and sustainability in farming practices. They are more likely to introduce fresh ideas and embrace sustainable agricultural practices. However, several barriers hindered their entry into the agricultural sector, including access to land, finance, markets, fair remuneration, knowledge and training, securing a fair income, as well as a decent quality of life for farmers and their families, is essential to attract and retain the younger generation in farming. In conjunction with this report, I welcome the Parliament’s increase of EUR 40 million for young farmers in the budget. But we will need to see more public support, including grants, low interest loans and business planning skills for young farmers.

A Uachtaráin, I voted for the EU protein strategy, as it will help create better conditions for protein production right across the EU, capitalising on agriculturally innovative capabilities. The EU has long been recognised for its self-sufficiency in agricultural products, largely attributed to the common agricultural policy. This policy has enabled us to produce an abundance of food products right here in our Member States, ensuring a steady and reliable source of sustenance for our citizens. Our livestock sector relies heavily, however, on imported plant-based proteins for animal feed, notably soya beans sourced from countries like Argentina, Brazil and the US. While we cherish the global trade relationships that have been built over the years, this dependence poses a potential risk to our agricultural sustainability and security. We need to produce more protein crops in Europe.

A Uachtaráin, as the ongoing tragedy in the Middle East unfolds, it is the innocent civilians who are once more bearing the brunt of the suffering. It is my steadfast belief that the European Union must maintain a resolute commitment to prioritising the protection of civilian lives. Amidst the turmoil, we must never lose focus on the profound humanitarian impact of these events. This unwavering commitment to humanitarian values must consistently be our central message. I voted for this resolution as it strongly condemns the atrocities committed by Hamas, which include ongoing hostage taking, who must be released immediately to their families, and the use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes. Israel has the right to defend itself, but must do so without regard or having recourse to force population transfers, collective punishment and the targeting of civilian infrastructure. Overall, a good resolution and good support.

Mr President, Commissioner, Earlier this year, the poll in Ireland showed that the cost-of-living crisis is the biggest concern for consumers. Inflation and rising costs have created significant financial burdens for households. Life is hard at the moment, and the cost of living crisis is being felt across Europe. At European and national level, policymakers should focus on an economy that works for people. For this reason, I welcome the Commission’s proposal to develop social economy framework conditions. By adopting common framework conditions, we can support social enterprises to promote job creation, boost local economy, and strengthen social and territorial cohesion. We need policies that enable disadvantaged people to engage with our economy and society, and for this reason I welcome the proposal to develop social economy framework conditions that aim to make the benefits of the social economy visible and recognisable.

A Uachtaráin, this is a very timely debate because I, in my constituency, am very close to farmers. And I feel they are very concerned about, number one, the raft of legislation that they’re expected to comply with, and also they’re worried that their sons or daughters are not going to follow in their footsteps and the farm might fall out of the family farm’s ownership in due course into the hands of those, maybe, who have no interest in the land. The problem is they feel under attack. Morale rather than profitability is the problem. We see it in Ireland, with the Citizens’ Assembly, with environmental agencies all blaming farmers for this, that and the other and giving them no credit for what they are doing. They are doing an enormous amount to reduce emissions and are also doing a lot to improve biodiversity. And they will do more, but they need to be given credit for it. If they are given that credit, young people will be encouraged to go into farming because they love the land, they love the animals, but they do need positive feedback and it has to start now.

A Uachtaráin, I think this mandate has shown us how naive, if well meaning, we have been in relation to foreign policy, especially in relation to critical supplies: too dependent on Russia for our energy supplies, China for solar panels, places like Brazil for protein. It’s time we got smart. And this strategy is hugely important in that regard. And as we have targets to reduce emissions through Fit for 55, I think we should have the same for protein. ‘Protein 55’: produce 55% more protein in Europe by 2030, and then go about it to incentivise farmers. As my colleague Mr Dorfmann says, they’re not going to produce it if they’re going to lose money. So incentivise them to do it and use every means we have, both plant-based and animal-based protein, but let us become more self-sufficient – ‘Protein 55’.

A Uachtaráin, they say timing is everything, so here we go. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, more than 5.5 million people have fled its borders – a staggering 90% of them women and children. The war continues to take a heavy toll on the lives of millions of women and girls: from increased risks of gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, to the loss of crucial livelihoods and rising poverty levels. The large-scale destruction of infrastructure has also left services for survivors of violence, healthcare and other critical forms of support out of reach for many. I am extremely concerned at the horrendous reports of women experiencing gender-based violence and rape in Ukraine. The plight of women and girls is, unfortunately, not unique to Ukraine. Since the Taliban took over in Afghanistan last year, they have effectively created a society ruled by gender segregation and discrimination, with women’s freedom of movement, freedom of thought and freedom of expression stripped away. We are also witnessing an already dire and worsening humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. The terrorist organisation Hamas still has many hostages that are women and girls, but also there are 50 000 pregnant women in Gaza who are unable to obtain basic health services. We, as the EU, need to recognise the plight of the vulnerable in Ukraine, in the Middle East and elsewhere, and do everything we can to help them.

A Uachtaráin, I think the important point now, especially from the Commission’s point of view, is not to be telling us about sanctions we have had and how the German economy is retracting, but to tell us where and how the sanctions are being avoided. And it’s quite obvious that it’s widespread. Even Member States who have signed up to sanctions are importing Russian products from third countries who are directly importing from Russia. That’s not good enough and that has to be stopped. The same with companies who are not abiding by sanctions. And I think we need a discussion on the sanctions that are there, how they are working and what the Commission are going to do immediately to ensure that those who are trying to avoid them are going to be stopped. Then we can talk about another package of sanctions. I think that’s the key.

Mr President, I presume you won’t be calling me again to repeat what I said! But if you do I will. So I am pleased to support MEP Torvalds’ proposal and in particular, I would like to highlight the excellent work done by my colleague Deirdre Clune. The current Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive is over 30 years old. Despite its success in reducing pollution from wastewater, I support my colleague’s aim to adapt this directive to new challenges we face today. The revision of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive will also ensure the consequences of climate change are better addressed. The frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall represent a threat to the efficiency of sanitation systems. I am glad to see that this directive shifts the burden away from Member States and back onto the polluters themselves, as well as recognition of the key role sanitation plays in public health.

Mr President, the EU GSP mechanism removes import duties from products imported into the EU from vulnerable developing markets. This is critical in assisting developing countries and alleviating poverty, while also fostering sustainable development through the promotion of human rights and good governance. Although the current scheme lasts until 31 December, the ordinary legislative procedure has yet to be concluded despite seven rounds of trilogues, leaving beneficiaries uncertain of the scheme’s future. As a former standing rapporteur for the GSP scheme, I supported MEP Hautala’s report as it provides GSP beneficiaries with legal certainty and predictability through recommending the extension of the current scheme while negotiations are underway. That’s the least we can do.

Mr President, green bonds play a vital role in making the objectives of the European Green Deal a reality. Financial markets have the power to address climate challenges by meeting the demand for low-carbon projects. The issuing of green bonds allows for the financing of green projects, while also allowing investors to diversify their portfolios with green investments. I would particularly highlight the role of green finance in enabling the development and innovation of social housing. Public grants and revolving funds are central to the viability of sustainability plans and key in increasing housing affordability. By supporting a strong, regulated green bond market, we also support the EU’s battle against climate change. This is why I voted in favour of this report, as it supports a harmonised standard for European green bonds. This will all streamline the process of investing in green bonds, as well as improve the functioning of the single market.

A Uachtaráin, I have great admiration for truck drivers. They play an integral part in maintaining economic activity and ensuring that the goods we need are delivered and appear on our shelves. Yet, truck drivers, as has been said, face dangerous conditions in their rest areas, in addition to poor sanitary conditions. This just is not good enough. According to the International Road Transport Union, Europe is lacking 100 000 parking places for truck drivers to take their rest, while most of the existing parking areas for 300 000 trucks are below acceptable standards. As truckers are obliged to take legally mandated risks, we should protect them during these periods. Issues remain with the number of rest stops. So it’s not surprising Europe is facing the most acute driver shortage in history, with over 20 % of the jobs unfilled. If we do not address these conditions quickly, young generations will not enter the sector, and we only have to look at the experience of United Kingdom post-Brexit to understand the havoc this can bring to a country’s economy.

Mr President, with the wide range of information technology, such as social media and messaging apps, there are unprecedented opportunities for communication and cooperation. However, these same technologies are also spreading dangerous content. During the pandemic, we saw a 50% increase in children’s screen time, making them more vulnerable to scams, cyberbullying and abuse. In a recent study, UNICEF found that one in three teenagers was bullied online and 71% considered that this risk to young people was more serious than violence, poverty or climate change. A new law such as Coco’s Law is therefore urgently needed in Ireland to protect young people. Children use the internet and social media more often and from a younger age now so we need to take urgent action.