Midlands-North-West MEPs set out priorities for Ireland’s EU Presidency in Seanad address
Agriculture, rural development, housing, online safety and regional inequality dominated discussions as Midlands-North-West MEPs outlined their vision for Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the European Union in Seanad Éireann.
The five Midlands-North-West MEPs addressed Seanad Éireann this week as part of discussions on Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting priorities ranging from agriculture and housing to security, trade and regional development.
The session marked the first time the constituency’s MEPs — Maria Walsh, Nina Carberry, Barry Cowen, Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, Ciaran Mullooly — addressed the Seanad chamber since their election in 2024.
Opening proceedings, Seanad Cathaoirleach Senator Mark Daly said the engagement reflected the Seanad’s important role in maintaining links between Ireland, the European Parliament and citizens, particularly ahead of Ireland assuming the EU Presidency.
The Cathaoirleach said agriculture and the Good Friday Agreement had been identified as two major themes for Ireland’s Presidency, describing the latter as an opportunity to explore lessons around peacebuilding, radicalisation and the influence of social media rather than simply reflecting on history.
MEPs addressed Senators in alphabetical order, focusing on the policy areas they believe Ireland should champion during its Presidency.
Fine Gael MEP Nina Carberry highlighted efforts to safeguard CAP funding, rural development programmes and PEACEPLUS support, while also outlining work on dementia research, online safety and youth opportunities through EU initiatives.
Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen said the EU Presidency presented an opportunity to strengthen food security, fair trade and regional investment, while emphasising the need for generational renewal in farming and improved supports for young farmers.
Independent MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan raised concerns over proposed CAP budget reductions and fisheries supports, while also calling for stronger action to prevent future building defects linked to defective concrete.
Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly focused on regional inequality and employment, highlighting the need to create opportunities that allow people to remain living and working in their own communities — an approach he described as the “right to stay”.
Mayo-based Maria Walsh MEP stressed the importance of securing long-term agricultural supports and stronger investment in rural development, while also highlighting work on gender equality, online safety and preparedness around European security challenges.
Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on July 1, with agriculture and themes linked to the Good Friday Agreement among the Government’s stated priorities.