“Stakes are high for Europe” says Doherty

Today, the European Parliament Liaison Office and the European Commission Representation in Ireland in collaboration with European Movement Ireland hosted, “Where to Next? Looking Ahead to the New EU mandate” at Europe House in Dublin.

As a new world order and fast changing geopolitical landscape presents itself for the next EU mandate, the significant changes to come for EU-US relations, migration, competitiveness, climate change, security and defence, the war in Ukraine and the Middle East Conflict, are key issues that are set to continue to dominate the EU agenda. 

Speaking at the event Fine Gael Regina Doherty said “the stakes are high for Europe, as geopolitical tensions rise across the Union and the World. Changing EU relationships with other major world leaders like the US and China are of real concern. This has led to an increased focus on security and defence, particularly in the context of war on the border of Europe in Ukraine and the Middle East Conflict.

Furthermore, following the Draghi and Letta reports, a key priority has been strengthening EU competitiveness and improving the single market, whilst enabling our small to medium enterprises to scale and grow within the EU. This will play a central role in the new mandate, as the EU seeks to advance its economy and compete with the US and China.”

The discussion was moderated by journalist Flor MacCarthy of Oireachtas TV, was joined by Doherty and Cowen, along with Ivan Cooper, CEO The Wheel, Dr. Pat Ivory, Director of EU and International Affairs, Ibec, Lauren Jones Brennan, United Nations Youth Delegate for Ireland and Owen Reidy, General Secretary, Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

Reflecting on the challenges ahead for the EU mandate, Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen  said “in order for the political centre to hold in the coming years, European institutions and we as MEPs must deliver meaningful, concrete changes that improve citizens’ daily lives across our respective Member States. 

“In line with the policy agenda I campaigned on, my focus in the next mandate will be on advancing the interests of Ireland’s agriculture industry, strengthening energy security and enhancing EU competitiveness. Today’s event is an important platform to discuss these priorities and chart practical solutions for the future.” 

This event provided the opportunity to reflect on the composition of the European Parliament and the new European Commission, and for key Irish stakeholders to discuss their priorities for the term ahead as set out, by the President of the European Commission in her address to the European Parliament. It also focused on bridging the gap between youth and institutional power.