Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We are debating a fait accompli and merely ratifying a decision that has already been made for us. It reduces the representation of the Twenty-six Counties from 12 MEPs to 11. I recall a time not too long ago when there were 16 MEPs. For this reason, my party must oppose the Bill. As with much of what emanates from Europe, we are being told what to do, not asked what we want or how it might be done differently.

Our main reason for opposing the changes outlined in the Bill is the reduction in the number of MEPs, further reducing whatever influence Irish MEPs have over decisions taken at a higher level. To all intents and purposes, those decisions are not subject to democratic accountability. The Bill also dilutes the overall representation of Nationalists. It is important that we have a strong presence in Europe and plenty of MEPs to fight the State's corner and stand up for Irish interests.

The constituencies will be too large geographically. For example, the townlands of Johnstown in the Minister's constituency and Durrow will be in the same constituency as the Inishowen Peninsula and Achill Island.

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