Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the MEPs, Mr. Kelly, Ms O'Sullivan and Mr. Kelleher, all of whom collectively and individually certainly fly the Irish flag while out in Europe. As I served on the European Committee of the Regions for a number of years, I know the importance of that collaboration and of working with your colleagues right across the different countries. Quite often there is much commonality, to which many of them referred in their briefing today. Many of the same issues arise but sometimes it is necessary to fly the Irish flag together as well because sometimes there are things that may possibly impact Ireland that do not impact other countries. I am very aware of that. All of them have spoken about the issues that are of importance. I wish to raise two or three things today. One is on the Common Agricultural Policy, CAP, and the issues facing Irish farmers. Certainly it is a huge issue in Ireland, as I am sure all the MEPs are aware. There is a big fear factor there. The consultation is going on and much is happening both here in Ireland and also in Europe. I would like to hear the views of the MEPs in this regard. Also, on the EU digital green deal, many of us here are from the regions, as are the MEPs, who are from the Munster region. There are many companies looking at such things as airports and ports on our doorstep, which are an economic driver for the different regions. Several of the MEPs present serve on the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs. What are their views as to how we fit in or how we can further improve things in terms of Munster? In regard to Brexit, we are all very aware that our nearest EU neighbour is now France, as Brexit is still looming. They referred to the relationships between Ireland and the North and it is very important that that is built upon. In regard to connectivity with Europe, how do they see things happening now that things still are not settled or sorted out? As I only have three minutes, these are just a couple of short questions but I look forward to their responses.