Cavan-Monaghan voices heard in Brussels
The visit was joined by Minister Niamh Smyth and MEP Barry Andrews.
Barry Cowen, Fianna Fáil MEP for Midlands North-West, welcomed a delegation of supporters from Cavan-Monaghan to Brussels for a visit focused on the European Parliament and the role of Irish representatives in EU decision-making.
The group visited the European Parliament this week as part of a programme designed to provide insight into how European institutions operate and how Irish MEPs contribute to shaping policy at EU level.
The visit was joined by Minister Niamh Smyth and MEP Barry Andrews.
A key part of the itinerary included a meeting with Mr Cowen, who briefed the delegation on his work across the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, the International Trade Committee and the Special Committee on Housing. Discussions centred on rural development, trade policy and housing pressures in Ireland and across Europe.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Cowen said:
“It was a real pleasure to welcome Fianna Fáil supporters from Cavan-Monaghan to Brussels this week, alongside Minister Niamh Smyth and my colleague Barry Andrews.”
“These visits are an important opportunity to show people first-hand the work being done in the European Parliament and how decisions made here impact communities back home.”
“I was glad to update the group on my work across agriculture, trade and housing, and to hear directly their views on the challenges and priorities facing rural Ireland.”
“After a challenging few weeks at home, it was particularly important to take stock of the productive work being carried out by Irish Government representatives and MEPs, and to reflect on how that work can continue to deliver for people across the region.”
“Bringing Europe closer to citizens is about making these institutions accessible and ensuring people feel connected to the decisions that affect their daily lives.”
Minister Niamh Smyth and Barry Andrews MEP also met with the group during the visit, which included a wider programme of engagement aimed at strengthening understanding of EU institutions and their relevance to communities in Ireland.