Ukraine cannot be made a member of the European Union while at war with Russia without profound implications for European and Ukrainian citizens. EU efforts should be towards de-escalation of the present conflict and a plan for sustainable peace thereafter. - source: candidate

Accession is a question for Ukrainians. But people should be aware what enlargement means. Council said 20% cut in CAP payments will be needed to allow for Ukrainian accession. Commission said enlargement will mean changes to unanimity voting, with big effect re Irish neutrality & corporation tax. - source: candidate

I do not believe the European Union in its current form should expand any further. Furthermore, I believe the expansion of the Eurozone facilitates exploitation by moving production to countries with a lower purchasing power parity, while still charging fully developed economy prices. - source: candidate

While Ukraine's EU membership could strengthen European unity, the country needs to address significant issues like corruption and governance first. EU standards must be met to ensure a smooth and effective integration. - source: candidate

We support the freedom of Ukraine and oppose the violent aggression of the Russian agreement. We seek withdrawal of Russian troops and humanitarian support for Ukraine. Ukrainian integration in the EU is not practical and has many serious pitfalls. - source: candidate

There are several key challenges. Firstly, Ukraine needs to continue its efforts in combating corruption and strengthening the rule of law, as these are critical prerequisites for EU membership. Additionally, ongoing conflicts, particularly the war with Russia are security risks right now. - source: candidate

Thats fine but with zero social welfare from our Govt. If they & others come here it must be to contribute with jobs already secured and resultant taxes, cultural addition, sporting and IT capability etc. - source: candidate

Agree 100%, capitalism has become really bad. It's just greed and selfishness and even corruption. In European Countries which are Socialist, people feel more a part of a team, have greater ownership, interest, kindness & pride in their Country & Govt. - source: candidate

Ireland needs to stop operating as a tax haven and a key to stopping the race to the bottom on corporation tax is to introduce a flat rate across Europe. Thanks to our tax policies Ireland is currently a captured state and the interests of workers and carers are always at the bottom of the pile. - source: candidate

This is a typical example of the EU’s attempt to harmonise that which cannot and should not be harmonised, economic conditions. Each nation has the right to set its own tax rates as it sees fit, and this is a further intrusion of a supranational body into nation affairs. - source: candidate

Tax harmonisation could undermine national sovereignty and flexibility. Countries should maintain control over their tax policies to address their unique economic situations. - source: candidate

Ireland needs to maintain power of our taxation power. - source: candidate

I oppose this because doing so will mean that Ireland will loose its competitive advantage if it is harmonised. Economic impact will be devestating for us. It could undermine Ireland's economic model, leading to reduced investment, job losses, and diminished fiscal sovereignty. - source: candidate

A larger EU budget can support crucial initiatives like infrastructure, education, and social programs, promoting overall growth and reducing inequalities across Europe. - source: candidate

Emerging challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and geopolitical instability demand increase in budget. Wealthy countries should pay more because they have greater financial capacity and have historically benefitted significantly from the single market and other EU advantages. - source: candidate

Absolutely, for sure we can afford it, BUT only following a Referendum such that Govt sets-out, a PLAN, how much, for who, for what, we must want the deliverables of that expenditure. Socialism yes BUT only with strong competent control, transparency & reconciliation of all expenditure. - source: candidate

Without a substantial rebalancing of the European project no more money should be given to it. Europe needs to become a democratic union; where the MEPs can propose legislation and where people across Europe have a direct say in the appointment of the commission and the European president. - source: candidate

EU is spending more and more on arms, 'security' & militarism. We don't need more money being sent to the EU for it to spend on arms, high-tech surveillance, border walls etc.. We do need massive public investment in housing, public services & climate action. - source: candidate

No. I oppose another term for Ursula von der Leyen due to her involvement in scandals that have undermined transparency and integrity. Europe needs leadership that exemplifies accountability and can restore confidence in ethical conduct. - source: candidate

She has distorted Ireland’s foreign policy and she seeks to create a Defence Union. - source: candidate

Europe is supposed to be the Peace maker & bridge builder. She has indirectly given the green signal to Israel to commit the atrocities. She has Europe let down. Europe must work towards bringing Palestinians and Israelis together and giving equal importance to both while standing for Justice. - source: candidate

I am not sure; more pandemic, war & migration focus, more control by Big Business/WEF/Davos more dilution of Ireland, its people and our hard-won Independence, perhaps not, BUT only if a Referendum in Ireland can decide/veto new leader, there are leaders much worse than Ursela vd Leyen. - source: candidate

Von der Leyen has disastrously overstepped her powers on Ukraine and Gaza and is set on taking the EU down an Imperialist path; where the EU military industrial complex is to be grown to new and horrific heights. Von der Leyen must go. - source: candidate

I have consistently criticised her for her stance on Gaza and repeatedly called for her to resign. I jointly initiated a motion of no confidence in her in the Parliament and was one of the first voices highlighting her repeated & dangerous overstepping of the limits of her role within the EU. - source: candidate

Collaboration in threat assessment and preparations are quite different to EU militarisation and active interventionism or support for foreign wars. I would support the former, but not the latter. - source: candidate

Greater collaboration on defence can enhance our collective security. However, Ireland's neutrality should be respected and maintained in any cooperative efforts. - source: candidate

Yes, but Ireland must remain military neutral and non-aligned. We must cooperate more among EU member states on defence and security but should not depend on EU to protect us. We must invest in our Defence Forces. They have been neglected for far too long. Modernisation, Better working conditions ! - source: candidate

Aontú supports Irish Neutrality and opposes the development of an EU military block. - source: candidate

No, we are NEUTRAL, we DO NOT want to be a target and we will not be, we have no desirable resources bar our enviable tax legislation and beautiful countryside, people, character and traditions & skills. - source: candidate

The European Union is first and foremost a peace project. It is a way to keep the states of Europe from each other's throats; it is not a way for Germany to project military and political might into the developing world. - source: candidate

Ireland's neutrality is extremely important to the majority of the Irish public. People all over the world respect it and hold it up as an example. It is something to be proud of, not to be ashamed of. Ireland has nothing to gain from further defence integration, and everything to lose. - source: candidate

The European Union already involves a common defence clause. There is no need to create a common EU army unless its objective is to operate offensively, and not defensively. - source: candidate

A common EU army could undermine national sovereignty and complicate decision-making. Security cooperation should focus on joint initiatives without forming a unified army. - source: candidate

Aontú supports active neutrality. We have an international reputation as a peacekeeper and an honest broker. We need to leverage that reputation in the fight for peace. - source: candidate

Strongly disagree. EU is a Peace Project. We can not allow the militarisation of Europe. We must work towards Peace and Reconciliation in all conflicts. - source: candidate

I don't agree, Russia are trying to protect their interests from a non-EU country. We must only want to be part of an EU for Good; Migration, WHO Pandemic Treaties & War support are an EU for which there is no support NOR PERMISSION from the Irish People. We must review any positions already taken - source: candidate

Our neutrality must be protected. We can contribute strategically and effectively as a peace-keeping nation with the EU. - source: candidate

A common army would only allow the European Union to begin waging war. European countries already collaborate on defence, and at present there is no realistic threat to European security. After its failure to annex Ukraine, Russia is not going to invade the European Union. - source: candidate

I believe while supporting Ukraine is essential, at the same time we must also work towards strengthening democracy in Russia and Ukraine. We must increase efforts in Peace and Reconciliation at the same time. - source: candidate

Support for Ukraine should balance military aid with diplomatic efforts to ensure long-term peace and stability. Each step should be carefully evaluated for its broader impact. - source: candidate

The EU should bring in immediate and full economic sanctions against Russia. All oil and gas imports should be stopped. All assets of the Russian state and Russian oligarchs should be confiscated. That needs to be done in tandem with tapering military funding to Ukraine. - source: candidate

The West has consistently set itself against a workable diplomatic path for Ukraine, and condemned Ukraine to fighting an unwinnable war instead of helping it with diplomacy. More weapons will not help Ukraine to 'win' a secure, peaceful future. Only diplomacy can do that. - source: candidate

Absolutely NOT, we have done way too much already offering 100,000 Ukrainians lucrative homes. If its WAR related, we MUST say NO. Let Russia secure its gas molecules, contracts, obligations and pipelines and let's get peace in Ukraine via negotiation not war. - source: candidate

Ireland is a neutral nation that should not support foreign wars or engage in needless hostile activity. Our proud military history is one of peacekeeping internationally, and there is no objective reason why the triple lock system might prevent this. - source: candidate

The triple lock ensures that troop deployments are made with full democratic oversight, respecting Ireland's commitment to neutrality and ensuring careful decision-making. - source: candidate

The triple lock is essential to maintain our neutrality and non-alignment . FF & FG Government wants to get rid of it. We cannot leave this tradition which has been our strength to negotiate for Peace and Reconciliation in conflicts. - source: candidate

The only reason Ireland would remove the triple lock is to wage war. Irish neutrality, eroded as it is, must be protected and any move to change the triple lock needs to be subject to a referendum. The question anyone who wants to remove the lock needs to answer is; who do you want to invade? - source: candidate

I am neutral on this just right now. - source: candidate

Sanctions should be strategic tools for promoting peace and human rights, not punitive measures. Like the boycotts against apartheid South Africa, EU sanctions should aim to facilitate peace and promote dialogue. Any action should be transparent and focused on positive outcomes. - source: candidate

Any State that infringes Human Rights and commits genocide must be held accountable. EU must not trade with those who violate environment and are involved in child labour, then how can the EU trade with a State that is committing genodice and murdered more than 35000 ppl in last 9 months alone ? - source: candidate

I agree, Netenyahu & the Israeli Parliament has committed an atrocity (but so also I feel was Iraq, Syria, Libya). War to procure reserves is not right. Check out award of gas licences if you doubt me. EU trade sanction would have a material impact & may help procure peace. - source: candidate

The EU needs to begin treating Israel like the apartheid state it is; and institute full economic and cultural sanctions. Right now Israel has €4bn worth of trade ties to Ireland, including in goods which have potential military uses which undermines our neutrality. - source: candidate

The EU should have suspended the EU-Israel Association agreement months ago. We also need an immediate arms embargo - Ireland's exports to Israel of dual-use goods increased sevenfold between 2022 and 2023. That is grotesque. Why are we still allowing US military transits through Shannon to Israel? - source: candidate

Yes, so as to protect national sovereignty. - source: candidate

100% agree: Until the EU manages to prove itself as being in the interest of the common good of ALL the EU people in a fully democratic & transparent manner. As with our own Govt, CONFIDENCE is eroded. We must move to a world where our MEPs are only representative of the wishes of the Irish People. - source: candidate

Until the EU is a fully democratic entity the veto allows us to prevent the nations under the sway of the far-right from eroding our democratic and civic interests. - source: candidate

Every state has the right to decide the framework and limits of its relations with other states. Every state has different priorities, different concerns, and must be allowed to set its own direction in regard to the world beyond its borders. - source: candidate

As mentioned before this is further federalisation of the union and erosion of a member states autonomy. The circumstantial nature of each nations issues dictates that union wide standards are simply unrealistic. Ireland should have opted out. - source: candidate

The Pact is not fit for purpose and places undue pressures on smaller EU countries, like Ireland. - source: candidate

Ireland must retain sovereignty on this issue. No one knows what the future will hold but if we hand the power to Europe they will make the decisions on numbers of people and the amount of money we have to contribute. They will not make these decisions in our interest. - source: candidate

I believe we must opt in for some articles while opt out for others. We must negotiate for this as we are in a unique geographical position. We are also not part of the Schengen Agreement. Brexit and UK's Rwanda policy has a big impact on us. This must be taken into consideration by the EU. - source: candidate

We have serious human rights concerns about the pact, including infringement of the right to claim asylum. - source: candidate

The migration pact is a strengthening of a cruel Fortress Europe approach to refugees. Ireland treats refugees abysmally. They receive a paltry €38.80 a week, and cannot work to contribute to Irish society. We need to improve refugee integration by allowing them to work and pay taxes. - source: candidate

No, borders to be closed right now, until we get on top of migration to date. We must be strong on this. We must have a transparent formula setting out the amount the EU contributes for each migrant & then have time to deploy that amount SUSTAINABLY & not as overpaid windfall to local hotels! - source: candidate

Yes lets have one centrally managed asylum centre where at least people are not homeless but are safe and fed and can educate in order that they may be processed beneficially for all concerned into the state of their choice provided they are fully committed to integration (& no nepotism/corruption) - source: candidate

Refugees need to be shared across Europe; with a common & humane standard of living & the opportunity to work and contribute to the nations they make new homes in. The hope is always that they can return to their homes, but while here they should be allowed to help us make our countries better. - source: candidate

It's not a matter of 'sharing responsibility', it's a matter of sane policies. If a parent is living in Ireland & their child is in Greece, that child must be allowed seek asylum in Ireland, rather than being condemned to months or years in a Greek detention camp before they can reunite with family. - source: candidate

Going forward each member state will have to decide if the Geneva Convention is outdated and not fit for purpose, or valid. It should not be the duty of some members states to accept the decision of other member states on this matter. That will not be self determination. - source: candidate

I believe each member state should have control over its own asylum policies. A one-size-fits-all approach may not consider the unique circumstances and capacities of each country. National sovereignty in handling asylum applications should be respected. - source: candidate

Some countries have a bigger role to play in the influx of refugees due to their role in exporting weapons, higher impact on climate. They should therefore have a bigger responsibility. However upholding human rights is essential for all. Ireland can and should have its own humane & sensible policy - source: candidate

The EU should operate search and rescue missions, with the result being returning those rescued to their point of origin., with regards to where they left land and set off to sea. - source: candidate

Saving lives is essential. We cannot allow people to drown but at the same time must have an expedited process of assessing IPA and ensuring deportation upon refusal. Also, integration of successful applications into employment and contributing to the society is essential also. - source: candidate

Yes 100%, we cannot have these poor people dying at sea. They can have a choice, be returned home asap or move to a safe European asylum from where they can graduate towards citizenship - source: candidate

It is absolutely inhumane to allow people to drown in the sea. We have a responsibility to save lives, and someone’s language, origin, religion or the colour of their skin should never be a factor in deciding whether they should live or die. - source: candidate

It's boggling that this is even a question. You cannot be horrified by what's happening in Gaza and stand over letting people drown at Europe's borders because European countries won't give them access to visas and work permits to come work in the EU legally. - source: candidate

While humanitarian efforts are crucial, EU search and rescue operations could encourage more dangerous crossings. Focus should be on supporting safe and legal pathways for migrants and addressing root causes in their home countries. - source: candidate

12,500 homeless is sad, tragic & symptomatic of bad management. There is a euro 52 million budget to build an asylum centre & its not done. Recall Corrib, $1bn became a $6bn nightmare 10 years late. I HATE graft, corruption, kick-backs, it means compromised persons & loss of objectivity & trust. - source: candidate

We need to solve the housing crisis immediately. Irish people are being forced out of the country en masse and 71% of people under 30 are stuck living with their parents. Asylum seekers have been treated abysmally in Ireland since before the housing crisis began. - source: candidate

Ireland needs to do more to ensure everyone in Ireland has suitable accommodation, rather than letting the Government off the hook now it's found a convenient scapegoat for its decades of failure in this regard. - source: candidate

There are 37 vacant properties in the ownership of the Minister for Integration that were bought for the purpose and of housing asylum seekers. - source: candidate

Ireland must FIX the broken asylum system. We must have improved reception, faster processing of IPA (within 90 days), deportation by the state upon unsuccessful application and integration into workforce ensuring positive contribution to our society upon a successful application. - source: candidate

There are simple finite realities, Ireland cannot do more. If it could have done more then surely there would not be children homeless in Ireland? Surely asylum would not require the sacrifice of our tourism industry. Ireland has done all it can. - source: candidate

No, I do not agree. There are too many who are not genuine asylum seekers, and Ireland has taken on too big of a responsibility for our size. We need to ensure we can provide for those truly in need without overwhelming our resources. - source: candidate

This would help manage the flow of asylum seekers. Although it's a sensitive topic, implementing checkpoints can be a temporary measure until a proper solution and collaboration are in place. - source: candidate

While I do not want a border, I am in favour of checkpoints. This will be temporary while more resources should be allocated to faster processing of IPA, implementation of deportation upon an unsuccessful application and integration into the labour market upon a successful application where possible - source: candidate

100%, my suggestion is CLOSE all borders, build big world class asylum centre for migrants already here, stop and search for paperwork, no paperwork then to asylum where one can stay OR go home or work to graduate oneself eventually to citizenship - source: candidate

There is a legal requirement to process asylum claims. Checks at the border will do nothing to limit the amount claiming asylum. If there should be checkpoints they should be upon entry into northern Ireland, not within the island of Ireland. - source: candidate

There must be an Irish sea border. Asylum applicants from Britain must apply at the airports and ferry ports in the North of Ireland. This policy has the support of the majority of people polled in the North. - source: candidate

No, of course not. The Good Friday agreement is predicated on the free movement of people between the two jurisdictions. Peace on our Island is only enabled by the dissolution of barriers between North and South, and any moves to reverse that must be opposed. - source: candidate

Rewetting peatlands is crucial for climate mitigation and biodiversity. EU-wide action can provide the necessary resources and coordination for effective implementation. - source: candidate

The Nature Restoration law doesn’t go far enough to protect the environment. It doesn’t provide funding for the measures it proposes & it places no burden on nations to fully implement the changes. We support a stronger Nature Restoration bill that will help end the climate & biodiversity crises. - source: candidate

Restoration does not mean taking land out of production. The text now specifically states that any rewetting of agriculturally drained peatlands will be voluntary for farmers. That wording comes from my colleague Mick Wallace, one of only 7 negotiators from the Parliament on the legislation. - source: candidate

Farmers cannot continue to be excluded from decision-making on vital issues that impact the sector they drive. Protecting biodiversity & our environment is critical to farm sustainability but protecting our environment without farmers consultation is not possible. - source: candidate

No I don't feel this is a priority. There needs to be common sense applied to CO2 emissions. One volcano for example has enormous emissions. We absolutely should head for Net Zero but not only for any of the usual reasons but because greenhouse gases can alter methylation (on/off) of our DNA/Genes. - source: candidate

I support ambitious climate goals, but we must ensure they are realistic and achievable. While challenging, the 55% target drives innovation and necessary action against climate change, provided we have clear, practical plans. - source: candidate

Achieving such a steep reduction in emissions within a relatively short timeframe could impose significant costs on the Irish economy. Sectors such as agriculture, which is a major part of Ireland's economy, could face substantial challenges in reducing emissions quickly without harming productivity - source: candidate

It is always better to have a stretched rather than soft target, we must reconcile progress across all countries and we must share learnings and standardise across the solutions delivering most material reductions - source: candidate

It isn’t ambitious enough. To have any chance of preventing climate breakdown we need Europe to reach zero emissions by 2030. To achieve that we need to build a movement of workers and carers who will strike for the revolutionary changes necessary to save the planet. - source: candidate

55% by 2030 is too low. According to the IPCC, to avoid climate breakdown, we need to cut global emissions in half by 2030 and get to zero before 2050. But this is a global average target. Given its greater responsibility for historical emissions and capacity to act, the EU can and should do more. - source: candidate

Expanding wind energy is essential for Ireland's renewable energy transition. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels and supports our commitment to combating climate change. - source: candidate

These must be built only with community consent. The government should change the investment model to a system where more communities themselves own the turbines. - source: candidate

Ireland has a naturally high wind resource due to its geographical location, making it an ideal location for wind energy production. Capitalising on this renewable resource can provide a significant and reliable source of clean energy. - source: candidate

Yes why not, lets keep going, we are doing well & if we can use them to modify planning restrictions so much the better. We should adopt Europe best in class planning law. The beauty of Europe, there are many versions, we just need to fast follow the best, it's simple & away with any self-interest. - source: candidate

Ireland needs a major expansion of renewable energy. We believe that communities need to be given a stake in energy production; onshore windfarms should be owned by local communities, with the benefits of that ownership going to those communities. The state needs to build and own offshore windfarms. - source: candidate

We urgently need to decarbonise our economies to stay below 1.5c. We can be energy independent with renewables. But I would like to see energy communities promoted - e.g. planning for renewable energy projects is only granted if the local community have option to buy 30% or more of the development. - source: candidate

Irish farmers face unique challenges, and special treatment can ensure sustainable farming practices without compromising their livelihoods. Balance is key for both environmental and economic health. - source: candidate

Look its simple, its always 80/20, the Pareto Effect. Let's focus on measures and changes that will have the greatest material reduction on emissions. If Nitrates is part of the 20% having an 80% consequence then we continue, otherwise we should drop it. - source: candidate

The Directive is about water quality and part of the Water Framework Directive, so if water quality is good enough then the derogation should stay in place. Of course Ireland such try to retain it. But the Nitrates Action Plan must improve water quality or the current kg/h will be lowered again. - source: candidate

Removing the existing nitrates derogation without compensating farmers is an example of eco-austerity. It should not be removed without first securing farmers’ incomes which the present use of nitrates fertiliser guarantees. - source: candidate

Perhaps yes, I am sorry, but subsidies distort competition & surely at this stage, beef especially should stand on its own two feet. Then if people want beef they just have to pay more for it. No one expects the farmers to operate at a loss. Then increase family credits. - source: candidate

We need to make farming pay for farmers, and reintroduce full-time farming to this country. We should be shifting funding to help farmers diversify their farms and to restore and manage habitats. We need to subsidise farmers to produce food that we currently import. - source: candidate

We need to balance environmental sustainability with supporting our farmers. Any changes to subsidies should include support for farmers to transition to more sustainable practices without harming their livelihoods. - source: candidate

Irish agricultural emissions need to be cut and the sector has a carbon budget in Irish law. But farmers need to be incentivised to diversify. Farm diversification is key. But it must be voluntary. Without a Just Transition there will be no transition at all. - source: candidate

The government should help farmers reduce emissions rather than punish farmers. - source: candidate

Many Irish farmers depend heavily on subsidies to sustain their livelihoods. Reducing these subsidies could lead to significant financial strain, particularly for small and medium-sized farms that rely on beef and dairy production. - source: candidate