Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome President von der Leyen to the Oireachtas on the 50th anniversary of Ireland's accession to the EU.One important early benefit of accession was the impetus it created for more progressive national policies in areas such as gender equality, the environment, employment, ending the marriage bar and the working time directive. That version of Europe, as a collective momentum for the raising of social standards and promotion of fundamental rights, is one which still resonates deeply with citizens in many countries, including Ireland. The introduction of the general data protection regulation was also another positive moment in that regard.

Unfortunately, there was a period during austerity when the momentum to which I refer and any long-term, sustainable and inclusive vision for Europe seemed to be cast aside in favour of short-term fiscal targets. Austerity eroded public services, the social fabric and public confidence across the EU, the consequences of which are still being felt. Some learnings have been taken from those mistakes, as reflected in the very different economic and social approach during the recent pandemic. There is much to be praised in the generous and collective European response to the crisis, with the sad exception of the shameful position taken by the EU in blocking and delaying a trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights waiver.

Another acknowledgement of the need to deepen connection between the people of Europe and its institutions was the holding of the Conference on the Future of Europe recently. I was honoured to be one of four national parliamentarians from Ireland to take part in that process. It was moving to see citizens from different countries share similar concerns and express common desires to make Europe a better, more equal and sustainable place for all to live in. While the citizens emphasised values and rights, it was concerning that some of those in powerful positions seemed more focused on European economic dominance and military strength. It was also interesting how many of the citizens' recommendations reflected issues long-raised by social and environmental NGOs and trade unions - a reminder, perhaps, that the EU should listen more to citizens and civil society and less to corporate lobbyists. The public good must be prioritised over the profit of a few. This is particularly crucial when it comes climate action. We simply cannot afford the dilution of the taxonomy of the due diligence directive and Fit for 55. We cannot afford to remain within the energy charter treaty or investment court structures when we need to deliver ambitious energy and climate policies.

Madam President kindly acknowledged the contribution Ireland has made to Europe, and I would suggest our active record of neutrality is part of that contribution. Our neutrality is not something we leave aside to engage with the world. It is the basis for our engagement with the world, a basis that has allowed us to be champions on international law, humanitarian action and to bridge the links between Europe and much of the rest of the world. The importance of peace is crucial in this regard. The President heard the applause for no hard Border on the island of Ireland. It is also important that the EU does not support the creation of hard borders in Africa as part of an immigration control mechanism. The EU, at its best, is like the UN - an example of the possibilities of multilateralism grounded in principles rather than interests. We must not return to big-power politics. I would urge that the honest heart and open mind the president spoke about must turn outwards from the EU towards the world and must not be turned solely inwards towards our citizens.