Social Democrats
I believe in a Europe we can be proud of. Where the rights of all are respected, and member states are enabled to ensure material needs are met. Social democrats in Europe lead the fight for an EU that lifts living standards, advances rights, and delivers on key infrastructure to protect our future.
Priorities
Immigration
We need a strong built-for-purpose system, in Ireland and throughout Europe, which processes people’s claims efficiently and treats them humanely.
Environment
I will pursue an urgent and fair shift away from fossil fuels towards clean energy, a just transition and EU level implementation of the SDGs.
Commission President
I will not support Commissioner Von Der Leyen for a second term, given her failure to address the Israeli genocide of the Palestinian people.
These answers were provided by the candidate
"There are areas (e.g. workers rights, human rights, and other progressive causes) where integration has not gone far enough. Collective response to crises at European level is useful. But in other areas (e.g. some aspects of economic or defence policy) we would oppose deepened integration."
- Social Democrats
"While we do not oppose Ukraine joining the EU, rushing the membership process and giving derogations on member obligations - stable institutions guaranteeing rule of law, a functioning economy, ability to carry out obligations of EU membership - to some countries risks de-stabilising the bloc."
- Social Democrats
"We are favour of minimum effective corporation tax rates and a harmonising system around that, but countries should be allowed to charge higher rates if they wish."
- Social Democrats
"This depends entirely on what the money is being spent on."
- Social Democrats
"We strongly oppose the idea of a second term for President von der Leyen."
- Social Democrats
- Sinead Gibney
"European countries are providing support to Ukraine on a country-by-country basis, in line with their own approaches to defence and security. This should be allowed to continue. It is important that Ireland provides aid with our policy of military neutrality."
- Social Democrats
"Broadly agree, even if it potentially makes EU foreign policy less effective and might mean individual states can prevent the EU from acting. However it limits the extent to which the Commission President can go on a solo run. A veto would also help Ireland maintain neutrality."
- Social Democrats
- Sinead Gibney
"The EU’s Agricultural Policy needs to support farmers to have sustainable incomes, but do it in a way encourages environmentally sustainable farming. The EU has incentivised the intensification of farming, they must now support farmers to transition to a more sustainable model."
- Social Democrats