Dublin, Thursday 10 September 2020: European Movement Ireland together with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland and the European Commission Representation in Ireland held a webinar this morning ahead of the upcoming State of the Union debate in the European Parliament, to be opened by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 16 September 2020.
Key Irish stakeholders, including Noelle O Connell, EM Ireland; Deirdre Garvey, The Wheel; Elaine McGoff, Environmental Pillar; Tim Cullinan, Irish Farmers’ Association; Danny McCoy, IBEC; Patricia King, ICTU and Robert Nesirky, NYCI commented on what they will be hoping will be addressed in this year’s State of the Union debate.
Noelle O Connell, CEO of European Movement Ireland said, “The EU continues to face the decisive obstacle of the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to Brexit, the accelerated impact of climate change and frayed transatlantic relationships. The SOTEU address has always focused on ways in which the spirit of European solidarity and unity can overcome obstacles, disagreement and difference to find common solutions to common problems. For our work in EM Ireland, I hope to find promise of a resilient recovery focused on the dual ‘green’ and digital transitions; of commitment to democratic dialogue, debate and values centred on deliberative democracy; and of sustained social responsibility, inside and outside the EU. Fundamentally, I hope for an appreciation of the magnitude of the obstacles facing Europe at this time, recognising that our ability to address them will depend on our unity and our ambition to rise to these challenges.”
Barry Andrews MEP commented, “I was delighted to accept the invitation from EM Ireland to address this breakfast briefing. This event is a really useful opportunity for me to discuss and to anticipate important items on the EU’s agenda for the year ahead in advance of President von der Leyen’s first State of the Union speech as Commission President whilst also highlighting critical issues for Ireland such as the impact of COVID-19, Brexit and trade policy development. It is vital that we continue to have events and discussions like this in the face of the unprecedented backdrop of COVID-19 as the challenges this poses for European economies and societies highlight the need for agreement on a common agenda and common priorities across the EU.”
Seán Kelly MEP said, “We are at a critical juncture in European history. The coming months will shape the post-Brexit relationship between the EU and the UK, our ability to recover rapidly from the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and our pathway to climate neutrality by 2050. I welcome next week’s debate as an opportunity to shape these discussions and ensure Irish positions are voiced.”
The webinar can be viewed in full here.
Press Queries:
Speakers are available for comment. Contact Lisa Nic an Bhreithimh, European Movement Ireland 087 9503539 / lisa@europeanmovement.ie or Fionnuala Croker, European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, fionnuala.croker@europarl.europa.eu to arrange.
Notes:
- Tá cainteoirí Gaeilge ar fáil le hagallaimh a dhéanamh;
- About the European Parliament Liaison Office (EPLO): The European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland provides information on the European Parliament’s role and powers, on the Irish MEPs and their activities, and on issues currently being considered by Parliament which are of particular significance for Ireland and for Europe as a whole.
- About European Movement Ireland: Founded in 1954, European Movement (EM) Ireland is the longest established Irish NGO working on European affairs. An independent, not-for-profit, membership organisation, EM Ireland works to develop the connection between Ireland and the European Union. We facilitate links between all sectors of Irish society and the EU, through advocacy campaigns, education programmes, training courses, information briefings and networking events. For more information, visit europeanmovement.ie .