Speeches

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.

A Uachtaráin, Commissioner Hahn, on 20 January 2022, Zarema Musaeva, the mother of lawyer and activist Abubakar Yangulbayev, was taken from her home by security forces. She was violently detained, and many of the families of the relatives have reportedly been abducted as well. As her health deteriorated in the last year, Abubakar contacted Chechen leader Kadyrov and offered to exchange himself for his mother, saying that a woman should not be held responsible for her son’s actions. He and his brothers are vocal critics of Chechen leader Kadyrov and are based outside the country. In July, journalist Elena Milashina was severely beaten by masked assailants whilst travelling to report on Zarema’s court hearing. The lawyer representing Musaeva’s interests was also severely beaten. This is a cowardly act by those fearful of journalists who may expose the truth. Human rights activists such as Abubakar work tirelessly and put their lives at risk to bring attention to the human rights situation in Chechnya. There must be better protection for them and their families.

Mr President, Commissioner Hahn, the current situation in Afghanistan is one I find deeply troubling, but one that I have taken a personal interest in. I have been working on this issue since the fall of Kabul, and the trends I see are extremely worrying, which is why I proposed this resolution. The Taliban takeover has led to a humanitarian catastrophe that transcends borders and affects us all. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, around 97% of Afghans are living in poverty. The economy has no cash circulating for its people to pay for the basic products and services. I remain extremely concerned for the safety and well-being of Afghan citizens. The Taliban has undoubtedly committed a series of human rights violations, from intimidation, attacks and murders of journalists, former government officials and civil rights activists, along with the disturbing resumption of public floggings. Between August 2021 and June 2022, the UN has documented at least 800 cases of violations of human rights, including arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances and torture against former government and national security forces officials. The Taliban has ushered in a dark cloud across Afghanistan, and I fear that oppressive regime hides more horrors than we currently know. Fear has gripped the country with no respite in sight. Since the Taliban takeover of 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. I continue to have serious concerns for the safety and well-being of Afghan citizens, particularly women, girls, members of the LGBTQI community and ethnic minorities. We, as the EU, must use our power and influence to bring about impactful and positive change for the people of Afghanistan. We must strike a balance, continuing to provide aid while applying pressure to urge them to moderate their extremist policies. Finally, I’d like to thank all groups and shadows for their cooperation in this and sending a clear message to the Taliban that the European Union stands united in condemning their activities and standing with the poor, unfortunate people, especially women and girls, who are being discriminated against every single day.

Mr President, as has been said since the marriage equality referendum passed in Ireland in 2015, it has been very positive to see Ireland as a more tolerant and accepting society for members of the LGBTQI community. While there is, of course, work still to be done, it has been encouraging to witness this positive shift. It is very concerning, however, that LGBTQI rights are under threat in several European nations, including Poland, Hungary and Lithuania, as outlined by my colleague Marie Walsh. In Hungary, 2021 witnessed a government retreat on the freedom of expression for the LGBTQI community. This rollback extended to media content portraying gay, lesbian or trans individuals, all justified under the guise of safeguarding children. The European Commission has initiated legal action against Hungary, a case I am pleased to say Ireland has joined. According to the Commission, such legislation violates internal market rules, the fundamental rights of people and the core values. Tolerance and equality must be the core.

A Uachtaráin, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has made it clear that we need to form new trading partnerships in order to diversify and strengthen our supply chains. The historical success of the EU’s single market clearly demonstrates how close economic ties with like-minded partners can cement relationships between countries. As we observe an increasingly fractured global environment, trade agreements remain an important instrument in the EU’s international toolbox. As the world’s largest trading bloc, we can leverage our unique position in order to engage with partners on important issues. Much focus is now being placed on building up our own competitiveness and strategic autonomy, and rightly so. Both are positive developments, but they should not come at the cost of the EU’s standing in the global economy and international role as a champion of free and fair trade. Through new trade agreements, we can unlock important opportunities for EU business and citizens. For example, cooperation and access to critical raw materials in the potential EU-Australia agreement will benefit our future net-zero industries, while opening up new markets in Southeast Asia can create more opportunities for Irish business post-Brexit. But any trade deal should include adequate safeguards that ensure products from third countries which might replicate or displace European goods are produced in a manner consistent with our environmental goals.

A Uachtaráin, it is rather ironic when we were talking about withdrawing from the European Charter Treaty that we ourselves were forced to withdraw from the Parliament in an emergency exercise. Now, I think it will be very good, as previous speakers pointed out, if the Council engaged in a similar emergency exercise in uniting and withdrawing, as the Parliament voted on last November. A lot of these Council members are loud in talk about what they are going to do and should do in relation to climate change and reducing emissions. But their actions do not follow their words. I think it’s hugely important that we send a clear message here today to the Council that we have to act together in a coordinated way, that each and every one of them has a responsibility to live up to our commitments in the Paris Agreement and get decarbonisation moving and get fossil fuels reduced as much and as quickly as possible.

A Uachtaráin, when we speak about decent housing, we must be clear what this means: access to clean water, adequate sanitation and hygiene, connection to water networks, etc. However, it is important to note that the energy efficiency of housing stock has a direct impact on energy poverty and the cost of maintenance. Therefore, increasing energy efficiency through housing renovation should be a priority across each Member State. There is a dire need to increase construction and renovation, to increase finance and for a more coherent policy approach at EU level. This is why the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the EU’s main legal instrument to decarbonise the built environment, is so fundamental to Europe’s social and strategic well-being. We must also look at both national and EU funding to meet supply and demand challenges for social, affordable housing and to build more new homes. There is a need to look at what is already available, namely vacant buildings or even derelict buildings. In Ireland, they are scattered everywhere, coming to an estimated 81 712 unoccupied properties. Growing online retail has led to formal retail and office premises being left vacant. There are a number of supports to assist owners in converting these empty properties into homes I welcome the recent additional measures for this in Ireland, but more needs to be done, especially in granting planning permission, which for many is a nightmare. This is about utilisation of existing resources, not delaying planning, not taxing farmers, but reinjecting life back into main streets, towns, villages and our countryside.

Valdis, thank you for coming to answer our questions. It was said during the recession that some banks were too big to fail. I suppose paraphrasing that we could say some countries are too big to ignore, and China is obviously number one. For that reason, I welcome the EU-China High-Level Economic Dialogue. Now for my country, the Irish dairy industry is hugely important and it has been exporting infant formula to China for some time. But I think that is somewhat under threat now. So in your discussions with the Chinese, how did the discussions on the infant formula market go and what is the likely direction of travel in the near future? Because I saw an interview yesterday with the Ambassador to Ireland from China, Mr He, saying we should concentrate more on an ageing population rather than infants.

A Uachtaráin, education is a great equaliser, regardless of social background or economic status. Access to the right education opens doors for children. Education equips us with the knowledge and skills to understand different perspectives and the confidence necessary to pursue our goals. As a former teacher, I have seen clearly the transformative impact that education can have on students’ lives. It is for this reason that the segregation and discrimination of Roma children from access to education in some parts of the EU is particularly troubling. Despite the allocation of significant EU funds towards combating such forms of exclusion, the problem persists and has only been exaggerated and aggravated by COVID—19, during which time the digitalisation of education made access to education for Roma children more complicated. If you can ensure better inclusion of Roma children in education, we can address stereotypes and prejudices against Roma and Travellers through exchange in the classroom and friendships on the playground. We can promote better understanding in the next generation of Traveller and Romani culture and history. At the same time, we must provide schools and teachers with adequate resources to deliver these outcomes. Give teachers proper funding, teacher training, capacity building and they will deliver for Roma and Traveller children.

A Uachtaráin, improving firefighters’ working conditions is a very noble, and indeed necessary, thing to do and it must be done not just at Member State level, but we should have at least minimum standards in relation to personal equipment, in relation to remuneration that apply right across the European Union, so that they can feel that they are appreciated by all Europeans. As the Commissioner pointed out, firefighters protect us all, so we all have a duty to show appreciation and help them in every way to do their job. And I also welcome the commitments and the desire of both MEPs and the Commission to limit their exposure to cancer, particularly in relation to asbestos and carcinogenic materials. But also as rapporteur for the EPBD, I hope we’ll be able to incorporate fire safety measures in all new builds and in retrofitting residential houses, public buildings, commercial and business properties. That too would be a good help.

Mr President, we do not often debate sport in this Parliament because we do not have authority or competence over sport in general. Therefore, I warmly welcome this debate this morning, especially as it relates to the Women's World Cup. And first of all, I have to say, there were a lot of good things about the Women's World Cup. The games were excellent, the skill level was very high and large crowds were present. And of course, my country, Ireland, was involved for the first time and proved good, although the manager, Vera Pauw, was later given a stick and a road. But, ultimately, after the World Cup, no one was talking about the amazing games played by women but, about Rubiales and his behavior, and this showed that there is still a long road to travel to establish equality between men and women in sport and in the whole world. However, I hope that debates like this and the work of the FEMM Committee in Parliament will soon help to achieve this goal of equality.

Mr President, this a very important discussion because we need to focus on where we are in terms of democracy, and particularly the European Union, which is too often attacked for its negatives and not praised often enough for its positives. One thing I think we should really be focusing on more in the future is cooperation between national parliaments and the European Union, especially the European Parliament, because there’s too much of a divide even now. We should also be trying to improve relations and cooperation with local politicians – county councillors, as we call them in Ireland – representing municipalities through the Committee of the Regions. There is no point in having in these parties if we do not work more closely with them. Finally, in terms of creating European democracy and citizenship and awareness, I think we should be doing far more in facilitating young people to come to Europe by expanding Erasmus and ‘Meet your MEP’.

, Guatemala is one of Central America’s most populous and, unfortunately, unequal countries. There is widespread poverty, and food security issues driven by climate change, as well as widespread crime, have dramatically increased migration. More Guatemalans make the journey to the US than any other Latin American country. On 25 June, the country held the first-round election for a new legislature, as well as an election to see which presidential candidate would progress to run off. During this election, surprisingly, an anti-corruption reformer, Bernardo Arévalo, advanced. There has been concerning anti-democratic behaviour throughout and after the election. Arévalo faces many challenges entering the office of president. The international community must support his cause of increased transparency and accountability in Guatemala. I hope under the leadership of Arévalo, and with the commitment of the EU, that he is allowed to complete the work in Guatemala in collaboration with the Guatemalan judicial authorities to fight corruption. It’s a pivotal moment for Guatemala. We must not fail them, by doing everything we can to support them.