Seán KELLY

Policy topics Seán KELLY is active on

What Seán KELLY has said (80)

• 2026-07-14 “(15:06:44 - 15:08:03): I was rapporteur for the envy, open and uncapped, and that was passed recently by 52 votes to 4. And in it, we proposed the introduction of a voluntary starter pack for protein crops under the cap, bringing together targeted income and investment support, advisory services, innovation, risk management measures to help farmers diversify into protein crop production. We welcomed the commission's protein action plan. But given the importance of reducing the use dependence on imported protein feed, strengthening food security, and creating new market opportunities for farmers, does the minister and the presidency merit in such an approach? And would you be willing to support discussions on including a measure of this nature in the future cap? Kish to do. We and European Parliament have made our position clear that the next cap should continue to have a dedicated ring fence budget, and we've proposed an allocation of 433,000,000,000 in current prices. Parliament believes this is necessary to safeguard food security. Does the presidency share this ambition for a strong ring fence cap budget, and does the minister expect negotiations on this issue to develop well over the course of the presidency. Thank”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-07-14 “(15:46:47 - 15:48:11): well, chair. Thank you. I will do that. Thank you for the floor. Sure. The answers you gave, very comprehensive and knowledgeable. A lot of anxiety has taken place among farmers about the proposal to define an active farmer. Some of it has settled around part-time farmers or farmers who have off-farm income. I was pleased to say that you were a farmer yourself. That should not preclude you if you're doing your job properly, which I'm sure you are, from getting CAP funding. Would it not be an idea during the Irish presidency to put that to bed, those who are genuinely farming, to be entitled to CAP funding when it comes? There are an awful lot of professions where people will do one job and maybe part-time another job. In farming, it's necessary. They probably don't have enough, especially small farmers. Should the emphasis not be on eliminating the non-farmer who's pretending to be farming, the armchair farmer, as sometimes they're called, rather than trying to distinguish between farmers who are doing their job at 100% and might be doing it part-time and doing some other job as well?”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
• 2026-07-14 “(15:44:11 - 15:46:29): Minister, and firstly, to wish you all well. Denmark, at the moment, about 40% of its gas consumption comes from biomethane, so about 40%. Other countries are making a lot of progress on it as well. I'm just wondering as a minister for agriculture, do you see the potential in biomethane and anaerobic digestion into the future in terms of addressing some of the fundamental challenges facing agriculture around the issue of byproducts from farming itself, the impact that that has having on the environment and just the opportunities to explore those particular areas. The reason I say that is, obviously, there are challenges across Europe with regard to groundwater, for example, air quality as well. If you look at the countries that have made a lot of progress, Germany, France, obviously, Denmark, in the area of anaerobic digestion, it does two things. It underpins agriculture in terms of viability, but also it reduces the agricultural footprint on the environment as well by using waste materials from agriculture, feedstocks, etcetera, for the production of gas. Do you see during the presidency the opportunity to look at best practice across Europe to see where we can learn from each other in view of the fact that some countries have made extraordinary progress and others haven't, and whether or not there needs to be a revisiting of incentives, for example, at a European level to underpin the increase that is needed around the issue of biomethane? Bear in mind, there's also strategic autonomy is critically important in all of this as well. We speak consistently about the fact that Europe is under threat from its dependence on fossil fuels, and yet we have potential to, if we follow Denmark's lead, really reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels. I suppose that leads on to the other area as well with regard to the environment itself and just whether or not you see that there is potential for co-financing of environmental schemes on the issue of funding of the environment. Thank you very much.”
  Biofuels (RED II)
• 2026-07-14 “(15:06:28 - 15:06:44): you, chair. Welcome, minister. And I wish you the best of luck in this period that is ahead of us, assuming the presidency of EU Council. We will help you as much as we can. Best of luck.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-07-09 “(11:47:47 - 11:48:45): My colleague, Ressler, said Europe was a sleeping joint, and this is a sleep that is self inflicted because of overregulation, etcetera. So now we need to wake up and get rid of the sleeping tablets. I think, the report by Mario Draghi has been followed through very sensibly by the commission in relation to omnibuses and now the 28th tax regime. But also crucial to that is investment money, and that can come from the savings and investment union, which is a priority for the Irish presidency over the next 6 months. And if we get the cooperation we need and require, then the billions of euros that citizens have in banks sleeping there, losing money for them can be utilized to create the investment that will help us to not only research, but also innovate, scale up, and manufacture in Europe, and that will benefit all of us.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-07-07 “(10:32:52 - 10:33:52): I think there's nothing more depressing than to see a traditional industry like the automotive industry basically going down the tubes, especially because of unfair competition from China. So that's up to us to ensure that competition is stopped and that we give a fair advantage, to our own industries. But, also, I think we can move forward and be a little more creative. I agree with EVs. They suit certain people. They don't suit other people. They're growing in sales, but they have to be European. Made in Europe has to be the key. But also hybrid cars. I have a hybrid car, plug in hybrid. It says it will do a 100 kilometers. I have never done more than 50 or 55 driving even as slow as possible. So if the hybrid cars could cover a longer distance under the electric part of it, then I think that would be a win win for Europe. And we have to look at these creative measures to”
  Powertrain choice: EV-only pathway vs. equal support for hybrids, e-fuels, H2 · Chinese clean tech competition: trade barriers and investment caps vs. open market
• 2026-07-07 “(11:31:19 - 11:31:31): Thank you, president, commissioner Tisha. Congratulations to you for the wonderful speech you just gave us. As you said, you've made a good start, and now let the good work begin. Team of the Irish presidency, I think most people can see that's good, and it captures the essentials, for this mandate. I think Mario Draghi is outlined in 2024 the need for competitiveness. This is the 5th presidency in this mandate, and I think we have outlined and identified a key reports which need to be either finalized or progressed. Marisotkiewicz referred to the grids package. I think we can finalize that hopefully, but also make rapid progress in the electrification action plan, Industrial Accelerate Act, EU Competitionist Fund. Also, in relation to the omnibuses, these are integral, to addressing competitiveness. 6 are completed. I think we can hopefully complete another 4. That will be massive. You spoke at length to us last night, Ahishek, of your work to try and complete the savings and investment union. That's going to be absolutely vital if we are to research, innovate, scale up, and manufacture in Europe. Your point about enlargement, particularly Montenegro being out in front, but also for the others, but it must be merit based, is huge. And finally, a book bear of my own is try and end daylight savings. Changing the clock twice a year is nonsensical. 85% of citizens don't want it, so let's get rid of it. DPP will be fully behind very much, mister Kelly. Your work because we're partners”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• 2026-06-16 “(11:19:20 – 11:20:38): Let's firstly get facts straight. A peace deal has not been achieved between The US and Iran. There is a memorandum of understanding, a framework for negotiations, and difficult negotiations lie ahead. Despite president Trump's words regarding what has been going on in Iran since the war began, 1 thing is clear, it is a different Iran, but not necessarily a better 1. While the contents of this memorandum are not yet known to us, we can still say with some degree of certainty that Trump's announcement, let the oil flow, shows a narrow focus on energy markets. But the effects of this conflict have been more far reaching than just increased prices at the fuel pumps. Israel has used the war to occupy more of Lebanon and have declared their intention not to withdraw. The nightmare is not over for the people of Lebanon, so the EU must work to halt Israeli expansion in the region through the annexation of Lebanese territory. Thank you.”
  EU-Lebanon relations
• 2026-06-16 “The commissioner. Whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay. AI will define our competitiveness in cybersecurity for years to come, and it would be naive to simply be AI customers. President Trump's decision to ban Anthropic's powerful MITAS model underlines the geopolitical importance of this technology. We were punished in 2022 because of our dependency on Russian gas. If data is a new aisle, we cannot allow ourselves to be punished again. Some promote investing vast amounts of European public money in the race to build a dominant frontier AI model, Yet this would be hugely expensive and likely futile. Instead, we should focus on adoption in key sectors, investing in European sovereign computing power, and providing a stable and welcoming regulatory and investment environment to attract and integrate leading models on our terms. This will give us competitiveness, cybersecurity for our critical services, and resilience, limiting the danger of worst case scenarios. We need to be players Merci beaucoup. Our customers. Come on, God.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• 2026-06-16 “Commissioner, whether we like it or not, AI is here to stay. Ai will define our competitiveness in cybersecurity for years to come, and it would be naive to simply be AI customers. President Trump's decision to ban Anthropic's powerful model underlines the geopolitical importance of this technology. We were punished in 2022 because of our dependency on Russian gas. If data is the new oil, we cannot allow ourselves to be punished again, some promote investing vast amounts of European public money in the race to build a dominant frontier AI model. Yet this would be hugely expensive and likely futile. Instead, we should focus on adoption in key sectors, investing in European sovereign computing power, and providing a stable and welcoming regulatory and investment environment to attract and integrate the leading models on our terms. This will give us competitiveness, cyber security for our critical services and resilience, limiting the danger of worst case scenarios. We need to be players, not customers.”
  Cybersecurity investments for critical infrastructure · EU digital & tech sovereignty
• 2025-10-09 “– A Uachtaráin, imagine you were stuck under rubble after one of the most deadly earthquakes in Afghanistan's recent history, and you can't be helped because of the Taliban's rule of no skin contact with unrelated males and females. The marginalisation of women in Afghanistan has reached new heights. Bans on women working in NGOs, studying, and restrictions on their travel have massively impacted women's access to healthcare and humanitarian aid. Women also face increased gender-based violence following disasters, brought on by the intense pressure on communities through displacement, loss of livelihoods and more. I applaud the work of organisations such as UN Women, who are doing extraordinary work to help people on the ground. These organisations need financial support, and I urge the world to not turn their backs on the Afghan women and girls, and the organisations dedicated to help them.”
• 2025-10-09 “– A Uachtaráin, Gan dabht ar bith, tá cogadh uafásach ar siúl san Úcráin. Agus ag an am céanna, bhí Uachtarán Mheiriceá Donald Trump ag caint faoi shíocháin, rud nach bhfuil aon suim ag an Rúis ann. An tslí is fearr chun síocháin a bhaint amach ná an cogadh a bhuachaint, agus ag caint faoi i lár an chogaidh, tá sé cosúil le foireann peile ag caint faoi cheiliúradh i lár cluiche. Caithfidh tú an cluiche a bhuachaint agus ansin is féidir leat é a cheiliúradh agus an tslí is fearr chun síocháin a bhaint amach ná go ndéanfadh muintir na hÚcráine an cogadh a bhuachaint agus a tír a choimeád. Maidir leis na hionsaithe éagsúla atá an Rúis ag déanamh orainn, cosúil le dróin, teachtaireachtaí cibirionsaithe agus ag cur isteach ar ár ndaonlathas, caithfimid ár mbonneagar a fhorbairt go práinneach chun sinn féin a chosaint ó na hionsaithe éagsúla seo ón Rúis. Maith thú, a Úcráin.”
• 2025-06-20 “E-002490/2025 Answer given by Ms Roswall on behalf of the European Commission The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation 1 aims, among others, to reduce the generation of packaging waste which has been on the rise since the last two decades, while ensuring an EU harmonised approach which does not create barriers to the internal market. For this purpose, the Regulation restricts certain single-use packaging for certain uses, as listed in Annex V to the Regulation, leaving only minimum flexibility as regards packaging bans to the Member States. The Regulation does not include a definition of terms ‘cosmetics, hygiene and toiletry product’. Instead, to ensure a harmonised approach, the Commission is mandated to explain Annex V in more detail, including examples of the packaging formats in scope and any exemptions from the restrictions, by publishing guidelines by 12 February 2027. As the bans in Annex V enter into force only in 2030, the timely adoption of the Commission guidelines will ensure that the scope of the provision is sufficiently clear almost three years ahead of the application date. The work on the guidelines has already started. The Commission intends to consult the relevant stakeholders, including the hospitality sector, before publishing them. 1 Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, OJ L, 2025/40, 22.1.2025.”
  Sustainable packaging · Circular economy
• 2025-05-08 “– Bhí áthas orm vótáil ar son an naoú tuarascáil ar chomhtháthú. This report reaffirms the vital role of EU cohesion policy in promoting balanced development, reducing regional disparities and building long term socioeconomic resilience across the Union. The report rightly highlights the policy's positive impact on growth, productivity and employment, while stressing the importance of its core principles, such as the bottom-up approach and partnership model that underpin effective and inclusive governance. Importantly, it calls for greater flexibility to help cohesion policy respond to crises like pandemics, wars and climate change. It also addresses the ongoing challenges facing regions in transition, especially those affected by industrial decline or near the EU's external borders. Simplifying administrative procedures is also key to improving access and reducing barriers. Tríd is tríd, is tuarascáil mhaith chiallmhar í seo agus bhíos sásta tacaíocht a thabhairt di.”
• 2025-05-08 “– A Uachtaráin, Arís bhí áthas orm vótáil ar son na tuarascála seo ... Because it extends and revises the EU Gas Storage Regulation as it balances energy security with changing market conditions. Measures introduced during the 2022 gas crisis, especially mandatory storage targets, proved effective in stabilising supply and protecting citizens from price shocks. Extending them beyond 2025 is a smart step to prepare for future risks. I support the added flexibility, including the adjusted 83 % target and limited scope for Member State deviations in difficult conditions. These updates respect national contexts while maintaining a strong collective baseline. The proposal also advances EU goals by phasing out Russian fossil fuels and supporting a return to market-based mechanisms. By cutting red tape and reinforcing subsidiarity, it empowers Member States while ensuring effective oversight. Bhí bród orm vótáil ar son na tuarascála praiticiúla seo a thugann tacaíocht don Trasdul Glas.”
• 2025-05-08 “– A Uachtaráin, tacaím leis an rún seo toisc go gcuireann sé cur chuige straitéiseach agus cothrom chun cinn chun iomaíochas an Aontais a neartú i dtimpeallacht dhomhanda atá ag athrú go tapaidh. Cuireann sé béim ar chomh tábhachtach atá an iomaíocht chóir, ní hamháin chun an nuálaíocht a spreagadh ach chun tomhaltóirí a chosaint, ach chun athléimneacht eacnamaíochta fhadtéarmach a fhorbairt ar fud an Aontais freisin. Thar aon ní eile, ceanglaíonn sé tosaíochtaí comhshaoil agus digiteacha leis an gcreat iomaíochta. Trínár straitéis eacnamaíoch a ailíniú leis an gComhaontú Glas don Eoraip agus le Compás Digiteach 2030, cabhraímid leis an Eoraip a bheith ina ceannaire domhanda san aon bhunaíocht agus sa teicneolaíocht. Má thacaímid leis an rún seo, beimid ag seasamh an fhóid ar son fás inbhuanaithe, margaí cothroma, agus iomaíochas domhanda an Aontais.”
• 2025-04-03 “– (Níor phioc an micreafón suas tús na hóráide) vótálas ar son na tuarascála seo... ... as it condemns the rising violence against Christians in the DRC, and upholds religious freedom and security. The ADF, linked to the Islamic State, killed over 200 people in December 2024 alone. Forced displacement, abductions and executions of Christians continue unchecked, demanding urgent action. This resolution calls for accountability, urging the ICC to prosecute perpetrators and supporting an international inquiry into human rights violations. A special tribunal must also be considered. Religious freedom is a fundamental right. The EU must stand against the persecution of Christians. Agus trí na tuarascála seo, táimid ag tabhairt teachtaireacht thábhachtach láidir go bhfuilimid ag seasamh ar thaobh cearta daonna, saoirse, creidimh agus cearta na mban i gcoinne foréigean gnéis agus gáinneáil ar dhaoine. Tá áthas orm go bhfuair an tuarascáil tromlach mór sa Pharlaimint agus gur vótálas ina fabhar. Sin a bhfuil uaimse. Ádh mór.”
• 2025-03-13 “– A Uachtaráin, vótáil mé ar son na tuarascála seo. It is vital that Europe responds decisively to the challenges facing our industrial sector. The closure of the Audi factory outside Brussels is a stark reminder of the pressures on European manufacturing. To remain competitive, we need an ambitious industrial policy that fosters innovation, cuts unnecessary red tape and creates high-quality jobs. Support for industry and workers is at the core of this resolution. I welcome the Quality Jobs Roadmap and underline the importance of engaging with social partners in the Clean Industrial Deal. Europe's future depends on a strong industrial base. This resolution sends a clear message that we are collectively committed to securing investment, supporting workers and ensuring Europe remains a global leader in industry. Mar sin, ba cheart agus ba chóir dúinn tacaíocht a thabhairt do na moltaí seo.”
• 2025-02-20 “E-000779/2025 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission The European Affordable Housing Plan will include a dedicated European Strategy for Housing Construction to foster productivity and competitiveness in the construction sector to increase housing supply. While the Plan is not expected to alter national fire safety requirements, the Commission is already pursuing a number of relevant initiatives: - The recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive 1 (EPBD) provides that Member States must address the issues of fire safety in new buildings and buildings undergoing major renovation and may address fire safety in their national building renovation plans. - In the context of the implementation of the EPBD, the Commission has recently launched a call for tender 2 aiming at providing the Member States with guidance on fire safety linked to the electrification and renovation of buildings. - The Commission has published guidance of fire safety for electric vehicles parked and charging infrastructure in covered parking spaces 3 , which will feed into the guidance on fire safety in car parks required by the EPBD. - The Fire Information Exchange Platform (FIEP) is supports exchange of information relevant for fire safety considerations. - In the context of the implementation of the Construction Products Regulation 4 (CPR), the Commission will initiate a horizontal CPR Acquis group for fire issues. One of the subjects this forum will discuss is the new test method for fire performance of façades. - Later this year, the Commission will launch a call for tender for preparatory action on fire safety statistics in close collaboration with the Member States. 1 Directive (EU) 2024/1275 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 on the energy performance of buildings (recast). OJ L, 2024/1275, 8.5.2024. http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1275/oj 2 https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/digit/opsys/esubmission-fo-ui/?cftUuid=f762535d-cef8-4774-b779-8b7f8f0c5b34 3 Guidance of fire safety for electric vehicles parked and charging infrastructure in covered parking spaces Publications Office of the EU (https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/c2c1f892-f3ef-11ef-b7db01aa75ed71a1/language-en). 4 https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/construction/construction-products-regulation-cpr_en”
  EU housing policy · Energy performance of buildings
• 2025-02-13 “– A Uachtaráin, I voted in favour of this resolution to address the concerning political situation in Georgia, where democratic backsliding and increasing repression have undermined the country's European aspirations. The ruling Georgian Dream party, following a rigged election in October 2024, has consistently violated fundamental rights, including by repressing peaceful protests, suppressing media and targeting political opponents. Georgia's path toward European integration must be preserved and we must stand firm with its people in their pursuit of a democratic and prosperous future. The EU must act decisively to ensure Georgia's Government respects democratic principles, the rule of law and human rights. This resolution is a clear message of solidarity with the people of Georgia and their rightful aspirations for European future.”
• 2025-02-13 “– Maith thú a Uachtaráin arís, bhí mé an-sásta, cosúil le mo ghrúpa an EPP, vótáil ar son na tuarascála seo. The ongoing violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is both heartbreaking and unjustifiable. The escalation of conflict, including the occupation of Goma by M23 forces, has led to severe violations of human rights, including the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and recruitment of child soldiers. These actions are not only a violation of international law, but are also catastrophic for innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The resolution calls for concrete actions to bring peace to the region, including imposing sanctions, halting arms transfers and demanding that Rwanda ceases its support for M23. I believe this resolution sends a clear message that we will not tolerate further human suffering and that we stand in solidarity with the people of the DRC in their fight for peace and justice. Sin a bhfuil uaimse a Uachtaráin, míle buíochas agus go dté tú slán abhaile.”
• 2024-10-31 “E-002377/2024 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission The promotion of gender equality has been a long-standing theme in the activities of the EU, in line with the principles of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU 1 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2 . Biological and social influences affect women’s and men’s health in different ways (e.g. different rates of disease, symptoms and responses to treatment for the same disease). The Commission is mainstreaming gender into its health policy and supporting relating activities under the EU4Health programme. For example, the Gender Equality Strategy 3 highlights the need to address gender-specific health risks. The European Cancer Inequalities Registry 4 shows inequalities by sex. The Council Recommendation on cancer screening 5 states that due account should be taken of specific needs of men and women, while the Council Recommendation on vaccine-preventable cancers 6 recommends that the Member States strengthen national efforts to increase the uptake of vaccination against Human papilloma virus for girls and for boys. The Communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health 7 aims to help address gender-related issues linked to inequalities, gender-based violence and discrimination. Furthermore, exchanges of good practices among Member States encourage the establishment of models taking the specific needs of women and men in chronic diseases into account, as done for cardiovascular diseases in the GenCAD project 8 . 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A12016ME%2FTXT 2 https://sdgs.un.org/goals 3 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/genderequality/gender-equality-strategy_en 4 https://cancer-inequalities.jrc.ec.europa.eu/ 5 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32022H1213%2801%29 6 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/06/21/council-adopts-recommendation-to-helpcombat-vaccine-preventable-cancers/ 7 https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/comprehensive-approach-mental-health_en 8 Gender Differences in Coronary Artery Disease (GenCAD): https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/705d956d-4024-4dc4-8aa7b5284217cca0_en?filename=2019_gencad_frep_en.pdf”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• 2024-10-24 “– A Uachtaráin, thacaigh mé leis an rún seo toisc go bhfuil rannpháirtíocht fhiúntach tuillte ag an Téaváin i bhfóraim idirnáisiúnta. Cé go dtugtar aitheantas i rún 2758 na Náisiún Aontaithe i 1971 do Dhaon-Phoblacht na Síne, ní réitíonn sé stádas na Téaváine ná ní thugann sé ceannasacht don tSín ar an Téaváin. Tá ról ríthábhachtach ag an Téaváin, ar thír dhaonlathach bhríomhar í ar fud an domhain, ón gcúram sláinte go dtí an teicneolaíocht. Ba cheart a toghcháin shíochánta agus a dearcadh comhoibrithe domhanda a léiriú ina rannpháirtíocht le heagraíochtaí idirnáisiúnta amhail EDS agus ICAO. Ní hamháin go bhfuil sé cóir, ach tá sé riachtanach freisin go dtacaímid le rannpháirtíocht na Téaváine chun an dlí idirnáisiúnta agus an daonlathas a urramú.”
• 2024-10-24 “– A Uachtaráin, ní ráiteas polaitiúil amháin é an tairiscint i gcomhair rúin ar an staid san Asarbaiseáin, ach ráiteas morálta. Ní mór dúinn freagairt ar ghlanadh eitneach na nAirméineach, ar ionsaí míleata leanúnach agus ar neamhaird gan náire na hAsarbaiseáine ar chearta an duine. Ní mór don Aontas Eorpach an daonlathas a chosaint, agus ní mór an smacht reachta agus na luachanna sin a urramú go leanúnach. Ní hamháin nach mór dúinn na gníomhaíochtaí sin a cháineadh, ach ní mór dúinn gníomhú ina leith freisin. Caithfimid an Asarbaiseáin a thabhairt chun cuntais. Úsáidimis an rún seo chun ár dtiomantas do chearta an duine a athdhearbhú, ní hamháin le briathar ach le gníomh. Agus anois freagróidh mé an fón.”
• 2024-10-08 “– A Uachtaráin, I was pleased to vote in favour of this resolution to mobilise the European Union Solidarity Fund to assist regions affected by severe natural disasters in Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Greece and France. These disasters have inflicted devastating damages, with estimates reaching billions of euros, and have profoundly impacted the lives of countless citizens. While this resolution gives our support for a critically important financial response to the situations in these Member States, we should be clear that it is also a powerful expression of solidarity and support from the European Union to its members, as we have seen countless times over the years. It underscores our commitment to stand by those in need during times of crisis. By approving this mobilisation, we are sending a clear message that the EU is united in its resolve to help our fellow Europeans rebuild and recover. In conclusion, my vote today reflects the commitment to solidarity, resilience and proactive measures for a safer Europe.”
• 2024-09-19 “– A Uachtaráin, I voted for this resolution as the Venezuelan presidential election on 28 July marked a significant decline in the rule of law in the country. Maduro's regime, like Chavez before him, has employed numerous tactics – such as banning candidates, creating confusion and withholding voting records – to undermine a legitimate electoral process. Without transparency, his self-declared victory cannot reflect the will of the people. International observers were banned while friendly monitors were allowed to mislead the world about the election's legitimacy. This complicity in vote-rigging contributes to the ongoing survival of this oppressive regime, which has driven nearly 8 million people to flee Venezuela – more than those fleeing Syria. We must urgently call for an end to the repression of opposition members and civil society. We must put more pressure on Maduro. Without international pressure, the hopes of democracy in Venezuela are fading fast.”
• 2024-09-19 “– A Uachtaráin, Bhí áthas orm vótáil i bhfabhar na tuarascála seo agus cén fáth nach mbeadh? Mar chaithfimid seasamh i ndlúthpháirtíocht lenár gcomhghleacaithe in iarthar agus i lár na hEorpa. Tá na tuilte uafásacha agus an drochaimsir ag cur isteach go mór orthu le cúpla seachtain anuas agus, go háirithe, déanaimid comhbhrón leis an Ostair, an Ghearmáin agus an Pholainn agus tíortha eile nach iad de bharr an mhéid a d'fhulaing siad de bharr na dtuilte uafásacha seo. Ach ní hí seo an chéad uair go bhfuil sé seo ag tarlú. Tá sé ag éirí níos measa le tríocha bliain anuas agus insa tréimhse sin cuireadh isteach ar 5.5 milliún duine. Fuair 3 mhilliún duine bás agus chosain sé an geilleagar 170 billiún. Taispeánann sé sin, go gearrthéarmach, go gcaithfimid comhar agus cabhair airgid agus mar sin de a thabhairt dóibh chun an t-infreastruchtúr a chur ina cheart, ach taispeánann sé an tábhacht atá ann anois chun troid i gcoinne athrú aeráide agus ár margadh glas a chur i bhfeidhm agus na hastaíochtaí a laghdú chomh tapa agus is féidir linn.”
• 2024-09-19 “– (start of speech off mic) ... voting for this resolution, as we must stand united in reaffirming our commitment to Ukraine as it faces an illegal and unjustified war of aggression from Russia. The courage of the Ukrainian people in defending their sovereignty is commendable, but the costs – both human and material – are staggering. Russia's systematic atrocities, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, constitute war crimes. Millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, suffering the consequences of this brutal aggression. The US mobilised over EUR 100 billion in support, including military aid. However, we must do more. We must remember that this conflict is not just about Ukraine: it threatens our shared values and democracy. As we consider the long-term recovery of Ukraine, we must push for accountability for war crimes and support reconstruction efforts. Together, we can stand with Ukraine and ensure that justice prevails in the end.”
• 2024-09-17 “E-001731/2024 Answer given by Mr Hoekstra on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises the importance of promoting the mobility and independence of senior citizens in the EU and acknowledges that many Member States already offer discounted fares for seniors at regional and national levels. In line with the subsidiarity principle, the Commission respects the autonomy of Member States to design and implement social policies, including travel discounts, according to their specific circumstances and needs. Since issues related to public transport and social welfare are primarily within the competence of Member States, it is for them to decide on the scope and implementation of such schemes. However, Member States are subject to compliance with the principle of non-discrimination and access to transport services and discounted transport fares-, must be granted without discrimination on grounds of nationality. The Commission has introduced and supports cross-border mobility initiatives aimed at improving accessibility for certain groups, including the European Disability Card and the European Parking Card for persons with disabilities. These initiatives are based on specific needs related to disability. In addition, the Social Climate Fund 1 supports vulnerable households and transport users in the green transition, including by fostering the availability and affordability of adequate transport services to reach essential services. The Commission remains open to dialogue with Member States and stakeholders to assess the feasibility and added value as well as financial, administrative and legal implications of further actions in this area, particularly if such initiatives would complement national efforts and provide substantial benefits that cannot be achieved by Member States. 1 https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-emissions-trading-system-eu-ets/social-climate-fund_en#about-thesocial-climate-fund-scf”
  EU transport infrastructure integration · EU funding for transportation
• “51:28 – 11:52:47): Thank you very much, Mr Chair, and thanks to all colleagues for their very positive and constructive comments which are very encouraging, and also to the Commission, I think, who are on the same track as us. So if we all move in this direction and we move to ensure that the environment is protected and at the same time that we ensure that there's economic viability of farms, which in turn will guarantee the economic viability of rural areas and their way of life, which is hugely important, I think we can make a massive contribution because the next CAP is going to have ramifications long beyond the seven-year period that it is going to be there for. So we do need a solid and vibrant CAP now more than ever, and particularly the ring-fenced funding exclusively for measures for the environment are going to be absolutely key. I think farmers are anxious to contribute. They get great satisfaction when they know that they are reducing emissions or contributing to nature restoration or whatever, and I think that's something we should appreciate and reward more. I think they can deliver and will deliver a lot more. But it's absolutely crucial not only just from the point of view of funding but also to get rid of the excessive red tape that member states add to schemes which might be starting here in Brussels. And I think I agree with the Commission, we should look at a common way. I don't see any reason why there should be additional burdens on farmers in Ireland as opposed, we'll say, to Germany or France in relation to some scheme or other that is there to help to improve the environment. So there has to be a sign-off from, I would say, the Commission for any schemes that are introduced, particularly some of them are totally impractical. I've seen wounds in Ireland where farmers wanted to join a scheme and because of the nonsense, complete and utter nonsense, especially in things like forestry specifications, have made no sense. They just didn't bother. So we have to look at incentivizing—that's the word which the Commission used—and I think that's the key: incentivize, reward, ring-fence, and we can deliver for agriculture, we can deliver for nature, and we can deliver for the environment. So let's work together to ensure that happens. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. Um, obviously, as Anna said, the importance of Europe's electricity grids cannot be overstated. They are the foundation of our entire economy. Powering industry, homes, transport and digital innovation. I want to welcome the work of our rapporteur and historic. Her draft report provides a strong, well balanced foundation, rightly placing electricity grids at the heart of both our clean energy transition and economic growth. It acknowledges the scale of investment required the urgency of modernising transmission and distribution networks, and the need for a more flexible, digitalised and decentralised grid. Likewise, the emphasis on innovation including digital grid solutions, grid enhancing technologies and cyber security are critical. While we have a strong starting point, there are key areas in which we would like to build one, as you mentioned. We need to accelerate permitting. While recent legislative changes were meant to streamline processes, the reality in many member states is that permitting remains a major bottleneck. Must be addressed. In December 2022, the council approved the Approved emergency regulation and permitting as far as I am concerned. This emergency has not subsided, so we will advocate for these measures to become strongly part of the framework. Greek connection delays are slowing progress. Transmission and distribution system operators must be better resourced to engage with power generation and demand customers, ensuring timely and efficient connections. Dispatch down of renewables via constraints and curtailment remains a major challenge. Nearly 30 terawatt hours of renewable electricity was curtailed across six EU member states in 2023 due to insufficient grid connection.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “Commissioner. The past few years have taught us the hard truth. We can never again be reliant on Russia, or any country for that matter, for something as vital as energy. For over a decade, many of us warned against locking ourselves into dependency on Russian gas. It took an unprovoked invasion, a supply shock and a cost of living crisis to wake Europe up. But this is not just about Russia. It is about energy independence. Today, Europe is a price taker for gas, given gas is the commodity that determines the energy price across much of Europe. That is simply not acceptable nor sustainable. The only path to genuine EU competitiveness is energy independence, and the only way to real energy independence is through renewables. There are Europe's own resources home grown, price stable and geopolitically secure. I welcome the Commission's road map to end Russian gas imports by 2027. But let us go further. Let us aim for full energy independence as soon as possible. No matter the source, no matter the supplier will be.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “In Iraq. Mr. Draghi correctly identified energy prices as perhaps the most fundamental factor for European competitiveness. Electricity is 2 to 3 times more expensive here than in the US. Gas 4 to 5 times without an abundance of domestic supply. There is only one way to structurally lower energy costs in Europe. That is, end our dependence on gas as quickly as possible. Until we do that, we do not control our own electricity prices for competitiveness. That's a serious problem. But we are not going back to the world as we knew it. Before. Russian tanks rolled across the Ukrainian border in February 2022. And the policy actions we take must reflect this. Today's theme is urgency. I would like to see a clear, urgent action plan from the Commission aimed at lowering EU energy prices, set out what needs to be done urgently, and let that list be the benchmark by which this mandate is judged.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Commissioner. I'm. Thank. Thank you. I'm happy to talk about this very important topic. I'd like to thank the rapporteur and all the other delegates, which have done great work on this. In 2015. I welcome the progress made in Belgium, particularly the launch of a new partnership to transition away from fossil fuels and the commitment to triple adaptation finance by 2035. The past four years have shown us that continued reliance on fossil fuels puts our citizens at risk of price hikes and inflammatory inflationary pressures. Inflationary pressures. The big difference between now and ten years ago is that EU competitiveness and climate action now go hand in hand. Renewables put downward pressure on our electricity prices. Electrification drives increased efficiency and more EU money is invested in our home grown companies, rather than sent to Russia and the Middle East to pay for oil and gas. Europe will continue to lead in the fight against climate change, and we can demonstrate globally that this is also the most cost effective and most competitive way forward.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “I was the commissioner. I think it is very easy to criticise the commission. And some people do it and they get elected as a result. But as a As a parliament, we have an obligation to work with the Commission to deliver for the people of Europe. And there are three areas I just want to highlight one simplification. It has to happen, but a lot of the simplification is not the regulations we are passing here in Europe, it is the bureaucracy that is added at member state level and that has to be tackled at member state level and not like Viktor Orban blaming Europe for everything. So one in, one out. It is not one in, one out. It is 1 in 27 out. And then we might make progress. Secondly, in relation to ending our dependency on foreign third countries, especially Russia and China, that is a key aspect. We have got to industrialise Europe start ups, scale ups and start ups, start scale and stay in Europe. That is going to be vital and there will be judged on that in five years time. And the final point is we cannot change the targets in relation to climate change. We must do it in a In a just, competitive, traditional way.”
  Climate efforts
• “Europe is home to some of the finest universities, laboratories and research centers in the world. Our scientists lead breakthroughs in medicine and clean technologies, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. These institutions are one of Europe's greatest competitive advantages. For this reason, we must do what we can to ensure this sector continues to thrive. That means ensuring removing barriers and borders and providing the funds our researchers need. The ERA must deliver a truly single market for research, innovation and technology. We need to see ideas, knowledge and talent move as freely as goods and capital do in our single market. We need to invest in nurturing talent and strengthen mobility for researchers across the union, particularly in critical fields such as digital technologies, artificial intelligence and clean tech. It also means reversing the brain drain. We need to make the European Union the most attractive place in the world to conduct research. For countries like Ireland, this is particularly important. Over the past quarter century, Ireland has built a globally respected research base, supported by strong collaboration between academia, enterprise and government. But in the fast moving global economy, Europe will be left behind if we remain fragmented. A strong research area ensures a similar innovation driven economies can connect their excellence to the scale of the European Union. Just in time.”
  EU research funding
• “In today's increasingly multipolar and complex world, the European Union benefits from cultivating strong and reliable partnerships in order to continue serving as a global standard bearer for liberal democracy. India, soon to be the world's third largest economy, stands out as a natural partner in this effort. The strategic agenda and upcoming free trade agreement will help to solidify a diverse and complementary relationship. European farmers and businesses can benefit from India's massive demand for dairy products, digital services and pharmaceuticals, to name but a few areas. Additionally, the planned legal migration pathways in the agenda should be welcomed and used as a template for controlled skilled migration, which our businesses and health services badly need. While differences remain, including over India's ties with Russia, that provided further justification for cultivating a closer friendship with India, protecting Ukraine and protecting Europe remain the top priority. But delivering a strong partnership with India is the most desirable aspiration.”
  EU-India relations
• “Thank you very much to the Commissioner. You listened to us, and you're after making some very good suggestions in this package and expanded and modernized. The electricity grid is non-negotiable if we want decarbonization, electrification and lower energy costs for citizens and industry. The agreed package makes it very clear that our electricity grid is the backbone of climate policy, energy security and competitiveness. But we should be very clear on one point. You cannot say you want these things and then oppose measures put forward to deliver the required infrastructure. Anyone who does is talking out of both sides of their mouth. According to the International Energy Agency, a fully decarbonised electricity system by 2035 is a precondition for reaching net zero by 2050. 2035 is just ten years away. Yet across Europe, major green projects still take. As the commissioner said, anything from 10 to 12 years from planning to delivery. If you oppose measures to accelerate permitting for grids and renewables, you are simply not supporting a decarbonised power system. You are actually making it impossible. That needs to be said loud and clear. These proposals are designed to cut timelines, remove some of the appeals and procedures that add years without adding any real environmental value. Ultimately, the delivery of a decarbonised electricity system will do far more for nature and habitats than any legal appeal to a pylon or overhead line ever could. We cannot afford delays. Delays mean higher consumer bills, more renewable power curtailed and wasted, investment gone elsewhere, and a prolonged dependence on imported fossil fuels. I also welcome the proposed revision of tenure and the move towards more coordinated EU level grid planning. I know every one of us will hear from our national SOS and those concerns, which I will mention deserve to be taken seriously. But if we want a genuine energy union, we must get away from fragmented grid planning across the EU. Cross-border coordination is essential if we want the most efficient and resilient system. Thank you for continuing your good work.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Europe must strengthen its control over critical digital infrastructure, reduce external dependencies and build capacity both in technology and talent. We in DPP believe that achieving this begins with a strategic assessment of our current capabilities and dependencies, including on cloud infrastructure, data centres, raw materials and supply chains. This should guide where we build our own capabilities and where partnerships are viable. In that regard, I have three questions. One will the Commission commit to delivering a comprehensive assessment of the EU's digital capabilities and strategic dependencies? And how will this inform a mid-point review of the digital and decade targets? Two. What concrete steps is the Commission taking to reduce EU reliance on foreign controlled cloud providers, particularly for critical infrastructure such as the upcoming customs data hub? And three. Will the Commission support the creation of an EU tech fund in the next MFF? And how is it addressing the ongoing risk Of EU startups relocating abroad due to lack of scale up funding. Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “Hi. Time to deliver on the single market. The world's high time suggests an urgency and a frustration, which is understandable. I remember saying to Ursula von der Leyen over two years ago at a meeting that since I came here in 2009, all I was hearing was, we need to complete the single market. We need to complete the single market, we need to complete the single market. And I said to her, I was looking forward to the day when somebody from the commission would say, we have completed the single market. We know what the obstacles are. We must tackle those obstacles and remove them. They have been identified by members of the House all morning, but we must do and take on the words of the trademark of Nike. Just do it. Just do it. And then we'll be able to say we have completed the single market. Time for action. No more talking.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Thank you, Commissioner McGrath, for this debate. Too many times. Efforts to combat misinformation and harmful online content are pitted against a fundamental rights, free speech and national sovereignty, and we make little progress as a result. It's a tired story where the real loser is the legitimacy of our institutions, the very thing that makes Putin and his cronies happy. If we want a democracy shield to be effective, we must start at the beginning. We need clear, shared definitions of the hybrid threats we face. Those threats must be properly identified and classified so that any future regulation can be enforced with legal certainty, rather than undermined by endless disputes and internal conflict. For this to work, it needs to be done in a transparent way. I call on the commission to present a proposal, much as they did for the green taxonomy, which clearly defines these hybrid threats. These terms should then be debated and decided on in this Parliament, with buy in and input from all parties. It is only then, with clear, agreed upon legal definitions, that we can hope to bring in enforcement mechanisms to give the democracy shield the teeth it needs. Without this clarity, we are doomed to more of the same tired, self-destructive debate. Thank you president, and I am very happy Christmas to you all.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• “Thank you, Mr. Chair. The energy community is a critical initiative bringing together the EU and our neighbors in a legally binding framework that supports the creation of a well interconnected, competitive and affordable electricity system across the continent. The context for our discussion today is very important. Recent years have shown us clearly just how exposed we are in Europe to geopolitically driven fossil fuel price shocks. Even as markets stabilize and prices return to something close to normality. The illusion of business as usual is gone. The era of assuming low, stable, long term gas prices is over. Investors will now have to price in the likelihood of more price hikes, and rightly so. However, this is a major impact on our competitiveness. The price of energy in Europe can swing widely because of a political decision made thousands of kilometers away, be it in Moscow, the Middle East or elsewhere. This is a staggering vulnerability. We would never accept this level of dependence in any other strategic sector. So why do we tolerate it in energy? We must get out of this cycle of price shocks and strategic exposure, and take control of our own energy future. Europe, both the EU and our partners in the energy community must therefore prioritise energy independence and the abundant resource we have here in Europe that enables this independence is renewable energy in cooperation with our neighboring partners.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “51:28 – 11:52:47): Thank you very much, Mr Chair, and thanks to all colleagues for their very positive and constructive comments which are very encouraging, and also to the Commission, I think, who are on the same track as us. So if we all move in this direction and we move to ensure that the environment is protected and at the same time that we ensure that there's economic viability of farms, which in turn will guarantee the economic viability of rural areas and their way of life, which is hugely important, I think we can make a massive contribution because the next CAP is going to have ramifications long beyond the seven-year period that it is going to be there for. So we do need a solid and vibrant CAP now more than ever, and particularly the ring-fenced funding exclusively for measures for the environment are going to be absolutely key. I think farmers are anxious to contribute. They get great satisfaction when they know that they are reducing emissions or contributing to nature restoration or whatever, and I think that's something we should appreciate and reward more. I think they can deliver and will deliver a lot more. But it's absolutely crucial not only just from the point of view of funding but also to get rid of the excessive red tape that member states add to schemes which might be starting here in Brussels. And I think I agree with the Commission, we should look at a common way. I don't see any reason why there should be additional burdens on farmers in Ireland as opposed, we'll say, to Germany or France in relation to some scheme or other that is there to help to improve the environment. So there has to be a sign-off from, I would say, the Commission for any schemes that are introduced, particularly some of them are totally impractical. I've seen wounds in Ireland where farmers wanted to join a scheme and because of the nonsense, complete and utter nonsense, especially in things like forestry specifications, have made no sense. They just didn't bother. So we have to look at incentivizing—that's the word which the Commission used—and I think that's the key: incentivize, reward, ring-fence, and we can deliver for agriculture, we can deliver for nature, and we can deliver for the environment. So let's work together to ensure that happens. Thank you very much.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Roberto. Affordable housing has become one of the most urgent social and economic challenges across Europe. Just last week, Eurostat reported that house prices in the EU have risen by an average of 53.4% over the past decade. And in Ireland, that figure sits well above average at a staggering 83.4%. For many, owning or even renting a home is out of reach. But the housing crisis is also a direct threat to Europe's economy. The shortage of housing is making it increasingly difficult for businesses to attract and retain workers. This exacerbates labour shortages and undermines competitiveness. The upcoming European Affordable Housing Plan is a crucial opportunity to deliver a practical, business friendly and future orientated framework one that mobilises public and private investment, promotes innovation and digitalisation and above all, simplifies regulation and planning. The bane of our lives. This is our chance to guide the Commission's affordable housing plan. Let us not let the opportunity slip our premise. Let us work quickly and soon.”
  EU housing policy
• “On the EU single market is one of our greatest achievements, but it has yet to reach its full potential right now, too many barriers still stand in the way of businesses trying to trade across borders. The commission's new strategy is a step in the right direction, aiming to cut red tape, modernize outdated rules and digitize how we do business. But we need to go further. If we are serious about strengthening the single market, we must simplify procedures for trading goods and services within the EU. That means faster approvals, clearer rules and digital systems that talk to each other. Irish SMEs and service providers have so much to offer, but they face unnecessary delays and paperwork when expanding into other EU countries. It is time to change that. We need a system that works as one, not 27 different versions of the same process. A simpler, smarter, single market means more opportunities for Irish jobs and EU jobs, innovation and exports. Experts will be consulted on.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “For an energy island that is particularly exposed to fossil fuel price shocks. These projects are vital and are an important display of EU solidarity and the potential of a true energy union. But the real test of this PCI list will be delivery. We simply must see projects built faster than we managed in the past. And this brings me to some questions. First, on energy highways, how does the Commission see the interaction between PCI, PMI framework and the Energy Highways Initiative. In practice, our energy Highways prioritization within the PCI system, and should we expect additional political or regulatory prioritization for these projects? Second, on speed and delivery, how will the Commission work with Member States to ensure that PCI and PMI projects are genuinely treated as European priorities in national planning and permitting systems, and that the new tools in the grids package translate into real acceleration on the ground. Third, on hydrogen. The list contains a large number of hydrogen projects at a challenging time in terms of market sentiment. How confident is the Commission in the delivery of these hydrogen pieces, and how can it further support their delivery? And finally, on the MFF, excuse me, the proposed reinforcement of the energy is very welcome. How does the Commission see EU funding being used most strategically in the next MFF to de-risk and accelerate the most critical projects, while keeping costs down for consumers? Thank you very much.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “The recent volatility in global fossil fuel markets has again demonstrated how exposed Europe is to global price shocks, completely beyond our control. And while ending our dependence on fossil fuels is so important, sustainable biofuels can play an important role in that transition. But as someone who has been closely involved in the sustainability debate over many years, I think we also need to be careful about the signals we send it to investors. More than 20 years ago, the EU introduced ambitious targets for renewable fuels. Significant investment followed, but the Iluc debate gathered pace soon afterwards, driven by concerns about the impact of our policies on land use, food security and biodiversity around the globe. We then had to significantly roll back our ambition, particularly through the Iluc directive and Red two. We must learn from that experience. Advance sustainable biofuels can play a role alongside electrification, but let's make sure the signals we sin to investors are credible and consistent for the long term.”
  Powertrain choice: EV-only pathway vs. equal support for hybrids, e-fuels, H2 · Biofuels (RED II)
• “Thank you very much. Both the Commission and colleagues have made some very interesting and pertinent points in relation to this issue. I just want to hone in on two. One in China. Is there a danger that in trying to avert what Trump is doing to us, that we would become too close to China and facilitate them in getting a firmer grip in our market, an unfair advantage, and lead to more dumping, which they are doing. So I'd like to know what's our overall strategy in relation to trade with China? Secondly, I agree completely that we are right to be patient, to be calm, to wait for the 90 days. But at the end of the day, what Trump wants is a win. He talks about a deal. A deal for him is a deal where he wins. But if he wins, we probably lose. So I think it's important that if we do not get an agreement that we come up with countermeasures that are even be more draconian than what he would be imposing on us if we do not get an agreement because we want to win at the end of the day, rather than us winning. As I said, if it comes to that, but hopefully it won't. But I think being strong is going to be very important in part of the bargaining chip, where he and his colleagues see that Europe is serious and that if we go ahead with what we're doing, we will hurt them more than they will hurt us. Thank you very much.”
  EU-US trade relations
• “Europe is home to some of the finest universities, laboratories and research centers in the world. Our scientists lead breakthroughs in medicine and clean technologies, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. These institutions are one of Europe's greatest competitive advantages. For this reason, we must do what we can to ensure this sector continues to thrive. That means ensuring removing barriers and borders and providing the funds our researchers need. The ERA must deliver a truly single market for research, innovation and technology. We need to see ideas, knowledge and talent move as freely as goods and capital do in our single market. We need to invest in nurturing talent and strengthen mobility for researchers across the union, particularly in critical fields such as digital technologies, artificial intelligence and clean tech. It also means reversing the brain drain. We need to make the European Union the most attractive place in the world to conduct research. For countries like Ireland, this is particularly important. Over the past quarter century, Ireland has built a globally respected research base, supported by strong collaboration between academia, enterprise and government. But in the fast moving global economy, Europe will be left behind if we remain fragmented. A strong research area ensures a similar innovation driven economies can connect their excellence to the scale of the European Union. Just in time.”
  EU-level coordination of research agendas
• “Good morning. Last but not least, of course. Support Ukraine. Absolutely transatlantic relations at their lowest ebb ever. Eu strategic autonomy absolutely vital in relation to Ukraine. The frozen assets have to be utilized. Guarantees for Belgium. They do not have to carry the can for Europe. Then it should be solved as regards America. Trump's attitude is simple two words America first. Our answer towards Europe first. So we have to grow industries in Europe. Made in Europe has to be our selling point. And above all, we have to develop the infrastructure to make it happen. And a good starting point would be to implement Commissioner Jorgenson's grid package, which we discussed yesterday, because that will guarantee us energy security, energy independence. And that will be a good starting point for strategic autonomy of the European Union.”
  EU-US relations
• “Commissioner. Across Europe, millions of citizens are affected by diseases that could be prevented or treated earlier and managed better if we act together. That is why I fully support the EU's stepped up efforts on health, particularly in tackling cancer, cardiovascular and neurological diseases and preventing avoidable illnesses like measles. Cancer loan claims nearly 1.3 million lives in the EU each year. But through initiatives like Europe's Beating Cancer Plan, we are finally taking a coordinated approach in investing in research, screening, early detection and better Access to treatment across Member States. I am proud that Irish researchers, institutions and clinicians are playing a key role in this. Cardiovascular and neurological diseases are among the leading causes of disability and death in Europe. Yet too often they do not get the attention they deserve. We need targeted strategies and strong support for cross-border research and public awareness campaigns that reach citizens in every region, including rural communities. Like many in my own constituency in Ireland, South, let us be clear the resurgence of measles in parts of Europe is both tragic and preventable. We must not allow misinformation to roll back decades of progress in public health. Vaccination saves lives. Full stop. We must ensure that no matter where you live in Europe, you have access to the care you need.”
  Vaccination
• “I welcome this debate, in particular the plan that we talked about earlier carbon reduction targets has led to massive carbon leakage in these industries, particularly steel. And it has to stop. And thankfully we have got the message. Firstly, energy prices is something we can do a lot about. Number one, wean ourselves off fossil fuels, deploy renewables as much as we can, and develop a grid that can take the renewable energy where it is needed across Europe, but also get rid of the self-imposed bureaucratic nonsense that causes unbelievable delays in permitting and planning. And also, I agree with the commissioner. We should be mining what we can in Europe instead of this foolishness, mining elsewhere and bringing it into Europe where, as you pointed out, the standards in social environmental are far lower than in Europe. Let us do what we can in Europe.”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• “On when Putin invaded Ukraine, he surprised many people in Europe, especially in the West. But we surprised him with the unity in which we responded, particularly in the sanctions being imposed so quickly. The welcoming of unfortunate Ukrainian refugees, but also the speed with which we are moving now to dependency on Russia for oil and gas. But even if there was no Putin, we should be doing this anyway, because, as Ursula von der Leyen pointed out in her state of the Union address, dependency means control means higher prices. So the alternative is what we want develop our renewables will be shortly discussed in grids and grids to go with them so that we can have healthier lives, cheaper energy and above all, independence. So today is a good day from that point of view. But the sooner we move now to the alternatives that are there out there, the wind and the sun, but the grids to make them happen, then we will have true independence and we can forget about Putin.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “Why was Russia excluded from participating in major cultural and sports events? Because without provocation, it invaded Ukraine, destroyed its infrastructure, committed all sorts of crimes, particularly in Bucha. As has been pointed out by violence, killed many of their athletes and coaches, and now we're supposed to let them back in. What has changed? Nothing has changed. The invasion continues. The destruction continues. The killing continues. So it's very obvious that when Russia leaves Ukraine, or preferably is driven out by the brave Ukrainian people, then the situation will be normalized and they can come back into all these wonderful sporting events. In the meantime, they have to be excluded. And those who are calling for their inclusion, particularly the heads of sports bodies, need to be called out and not allowed to do so. Ukraine.”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• “I will continue in our struggle to combat climate change so that we have a healthy future for the generations coming. Thank you very much. You've done a great job. **Nicolae ȘTEFĂNUȚĂ @Co-Chair: Thank you very much, Mr. Kelly. Mr. Thomas Bayada. And just as a now closed the blue cards, we have had a very generous debate with over ten blue cards in it. Thank you.”
  Climate efforts
• “This is just not acceptable and has to be addressed. Strengthening energy cooperation with the United Kingdom is another priority, and that is something I think we can do now, especially with a different approach to the EU from the UK. Thankfully, I think we need to continue to monitor and ensure the efficiency of cross-border flows in particular and financing, which Anna mentioned is hugely important. We need more ambitious investment support. The current allocation under the current the Connecting Europe facility is inadequate, forcing grids to compete with other energy priorities. Storage solutions must also be part of the equation. Greater deployment of long duration energy storage can help maximize grid efficiency and minimize curtailment of renewables. Finally, and crucially, the issue of supply chains is partly missing from this report. Supply chain is a fundamental risk to our competitiveness and the energy transition if we do not address supply chain bottlenecks. All of the ambitions in relation to grid expansions we are discussing today will remain just that plans and ambitions. So we must make it happen. So in conclusion, I want to thank the rapporteur in particular and the shadow rapporteurs. I think we have a good focus for achieving what we need to achieve in the interests of the whole energy situation in Europe, and particularly, as I said, without proper grid connection across Europe is not going to happen. So this is very important and we're looking forward to further developing it. Thank you very much.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “This is a debate we have had time and time again over the years. I have consistently called for stronger action to prevent cyberbullying, including criminalisation, and for better educational initiatives for children to better understand its impacts. And I have organised public events to highlight this terrible affliction, and I am pleased that in Ireland we have led in this area through Coco's law, which criminalises a range of cyberbullying offences including non-consensual image sharing and harassment at EU level with important provisions included in the Digital Services Act to protect minors online. This is all extremely important. However, we cannot ignore the root cause here. 97% of young people use the internet daily. 78% of 13 to 17 year olds check their devices at least hourly, and 46% report checking them almost constantly. The social media apps and websites they use are designed to be addictive, and they are being constantly online leaves children vulnerable to a range of threats, including cyberbullying. I think we must take urgent steps now at EU level, to remove access and make it illegal for children to use social media at least before the age of 16, as they do in Australia, where, as chair of dance, I was able to discuss with stakeholders recently. I call on the commission to come forward with proposals a matter of priority. Let us try to deal with this scourge once and for all.”
  Age restrictions on children's access to social media
• “Oh, Commissioner, the EU is too slow where speed is needed and too fragmented where unity is vital. Our inability to adapt to rapidly changing digital landscape has left us dependent on foreign technology, shorten investment, and ultimately strategically and economically exposed. There are two major challenges we must address if we are serious about protecting European digital sovereignty. First, finance. We need to help our innovative companies scale up. If we cannot deliver the same opportunities here that exist in New York and California, then our startups will go there instead of staying here. I welcome the proposed Scale Up Europe Fund to pool public and private capital and close the financing gap, but we must be ambitious in funding it. We must also deliver a real savings and investment union, giving our companies access to the capital markets they need to grow and compete globally. Secondly, regulation in Washington, the instinct is to drive growth. In Brussels, the instinct is to drive regulation. We need to find the right balance. We urgently need a digital omnibus package to simplify and streamline our regulations and remove overlap and red tape. Finally, we must invest ambitiously in our digital infrastructure to reduce reliance on external providers and shield Europe from geopolitical shocks. Europe has the talent, the capital and the innovative capacity to compete. We must provide our companies with the conditions to do so. John McGrath.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “10:20 – 10:11:42): Thank you very much. I support what Peter Lisa and my EPP colleagues have said in relation to supporting the ETS. It is a key market-based instrument for emissions reduction, and it's a tried and proven system. We do have targets for emissions reductions, and anything that would interfere with the effective instruments which we use to bring that about, I think would send a wrong signal, and we'll probably put in jeopardy our chances of reaching our targets, which we are legally bound to do. Everything we can to reach. ETS is a tried and proven system, and it brings predictability to businesses and what they're likely to do. So any postponement or any amendments on ETS 2 would undermine, I think, the effectiveness of the policy, and moving the goalpost would cause businesses to probably stop investments, and that's the last thing we want. So predictability, desirability, and legal requirements and practicality all suggest that what Peter Lisa is saying, I think, makes sense, and I support it. Thank you very much.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “Thank you very much. I am delighted that colleagues from Christian to all the others have highlighted the big problem, which is Chinese subsidised vehicles undercutting our manufacturers. And it has gone to such an extent that I come from the most rural part of Ireland and I went into an agency recently that used to sell European cars. They've now switched to selling Chinese cars. So the people in that area have no choice basically about Chinese cars. And while it's fine to say we are an open economy, which we are, that is dependent on being fair. And there is no fairness here. So we have to, first of all, as Ursula von der Leyen said to us yesterday, TPP look at made in Europe. I'm just asking, will the Commission go on a huge campaign to make consumers aware, first of all, what's happening? And two, to look at buy in Europe, what's made in Europe, something of that nature. Secondly. The measures that are well intentioned I agree completely. But where do you think in 5 in 10 years time the car industry in Europe is going to be in terms of employment, because employment will reflect sales and manufacturing. So what's the target for the car industry in Europe for five years time, ten years time and beyond for employment? Thank you very much.”
  Trade relations with China · Chinese clean tech competition: trade barriers and investment caps vs. open market
• “My apologies for not having been here earlier and on. President. And thank you very much for giving me the floor. Now, very clear from the outset that while there are several things contributing to the high energy costs we face here in Europe, the number one reason is our continued dependence on expensive imported fossil fuels. Our electricity price is determined by a global gas market over which we have effectively no control. This means every time there is a disruption to a pipeline or supply route, as we are seeing right now in the Strait of Hormuz, energy price goes up. The week just before the US attacks in Iran, the Irish wholesale electricity price came in at an average of €90 per megawatt hour. In the last ten days. Since this has spiked to €145 per megawatt hour, consumers once again feel this increase. The answer to the problem, of course, is to end our reliance on gas, push it up our system and power Europe with home grown, low cost renewables. But of course, this will not happen overnight and citizens have to be protected today. If the last five years have shown us anything is that we need to become energy independent a lot faster than it probably is feasible. Enabling our citizens to participate effectively in the transition. Generating, selling and storing energy, providing flexibility helps ed Europe closer to this independence objective. Every kilowatt of power produced or stored by citizens is a kilowatt less of expensive imported fossil fuels. We need to burn China. We look forward to working with you. That's all I have to say. Thank you very much for giving me the floor. **Nicolae ȘTEFĂNUȚĂ @Chair: I appreciate it, Mr. Sean Kelly. This concludes the debate. But we have the catch the eye, so bear with us. Commissioner Jorgensen, I will start by giving the floor to people who have followed the whole debate. We start by Del Castillo. Vera Pillar for one minute.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices
• “Thank you. Firstly, I agree. The only way to get energy independence in Europe is to develop renewables and to have a grid to can carry them. In the meantime, we will need gas. First question gas that's in Europe has not been utilised, including in my own country where you have this absolute stupid, illogical idea that if you leave it in the ground in Europe and import it from abroad, you're going to save the planet. So will the Commission make an inventory of the available gas does not be utilised in Europe. Secondly, Trump is threatening us with tariffs. Is there a possibility to do a deal with Trump to say, we are not going to import any more gas from Russia. We will import it from America provided you drop your demands on tariffs and other goods. Thank you very much.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• “However, there is one area where I believe we can go further and must go further, and that's emissions trading. Instead of simply noting that different carbon border adjustment mechanisms could add cost, let's use this opportunity to try and make a clear political call. And that is the EU. Eu and UK should link their emissions trading systems. It's a logical step. It would reduce costs, increase market efficiency, support cross-border electricity trade and strengthen our joint climate leadership. But it won't happen by itself. We need to give this political direction, and this report is a good opportunity to help to do so. One final point. When we talk about the North Seas energy cooperation, we should always talk about the plural seas rather than see Ireland is a member of the North Seas Energy Cooperation, and the cooperation agreement covers an area much wider than the North Sea. It is also taking in the Irish Sea and the Atlantic offshore potential. Thanks again to the rapporteur, and I look forward to contributing further through amendments later in the month as this important work continues. Thank you very much.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “I was honoured to be part of the European Parliament's delegation to the Cop in Paris, where we agreed on the Paris Agreement. And I remember before we went talking to President Buzek and we were saying Europe would agree to reduction emissions. And I said we should add, provided other emitters do the same. Now, as we found out subsequently, they did not. But thankfully, the European Commission came up with the proposal on Cbam, which helps to establish a level playing field. Now it is not perfect, but I think they think they're also to be complimented on implementing what Ursula von der Leyen promised. Simplification and the omnibus proposals before us simplify the cbam take 90% of small companies out of it, but at the same time remain in dealing with 99% of emissions. There are other issues, of course, which have to be dealt with accurate information from India and China, etc.. But as we move forward, we can monitor these. This is a very good step. The ETS and CBM, CBM combined can help us to meet our commitments under the Paris and others as well. Thank you very much.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “03:36 – 11:05:39): Thank you very much and thanks to the commission for the presentation. I agree overall with the policy. Obviously, ETS is important; decarbonization is very important. But I was somewhat surprised that for the vast majority of member states, the revenues from the ETS were going into the general budget. In other words, it isn't going for decarbonization at all, possibly. Even when it was going to industry, it wasn't seen to be prioritizing decarbonization and also carbon leakage, which is a direct result of some of the messages we're trying to send, that didn't seem to be included either. So my question for the commission is how are they going to change that? And also in relation to the general public, most people, let's say, haven't a clue what ETS is. What can we do to change that, particularly to try and get the message across to them that ETS is good for business, it's good for the environment, and it's good for you? That's the key point. There are just too many eurosceptics and anti-Europeans out there who have a field day because we're not doing enough to promote it. While the websites rightly say funded by the EU, I think we could tie this in with Ursula von der Leyen's campaign for Made in Europe. I would ask the commission, would they consider doing public posturing and public advertising, like at bus stops and countrywide, showing the benefits of this ETS and also tying in with the overall policy of Europe? Because citizens need to know that Europe is good for you. All they're hearing is the opposite, and I think there's an opportunity here to do it. Thank you very much.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “Come on. Commissioner. Across Europe, farmers and small producers sit at the bottom of our agri food supply and value chains. They are the small players. They do not have the buffers of large buyers and retailers, where a late payment or a last minute cancellation is an inconvenience, not a threat to survival. That is exactly why the directive on unfair trading practices is so important. It sets clear rules against abuses such as late payments, sudden cancellations And the refusal to sign written contracts. New rules on cooperation among enforcement authorities regarding unfair trading practices in the agri food supply chain. Provide clear procedures for information gathering and investigations across borders. If we are serious about strengthening farmers position in the supply chain, we must also be serious about enforcement. This isn't just a trading issue, it is a justice issue. And finally, it's good that we're speaking with more or less one voice on this subject. As we say, the rare thing is a fine thing. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “I strongly welcome the European Councils conclusions on the Middle East and Gaza. The call for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages and the path towards a permanent into hostilities is most welcome. I spoke many times in this House about the utterly deplorable and unacceptable situation in Gaza. Our failure to act sooner and apply pressure on Israel has allowed this to continue. Now, at last, we see a United Council position reflecting the one that has been long advocated by Ireland. A call to lift the blockade ensured the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid to enable the UN and other organisations to do that lifesaving work, and to reassess the EU Israel Association Agreement. I particularly welcome the Council's reference to Israel's obligations under international law and under article two of the Association Agreement. There must now be a serious and immediate follow up. If respect for human rights is the condition of that agreement as it is and must be, then we cannot turn a blind eye. It is time to pause and reassess this relationship and send a clear, unequivocal message to Mr. Netanyahu that the EU is united against his unacceptable actions. Thank you.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• “Thank you very much and thanks to the commissioners, it has been said that nobody is happy with the proposals, and that's a good thing, because if there were, we'd have nothing to discuss and we have a year at least to hammer out, hopefully an agreement. But I think we can all agree on the direction of travel in terms of the need to address climate change, the need for independence for Europe and the need to be competitive. Now, having said that, I want to mention a few points. One, thanks to Commissioner Roswell for going to my country last week and hopefully the derogation can be granted to our farmers. Peter Liese mentioned cap and the last speaker also mentioned it. I think it is vitally important that rural areas are taken care of, and particularly the second pillar, which will deliver in terms of environment and climate projects. They are absolutely vital and they cannot be diminished in any way. Also, I was very pleased to hear the Commissioner speak about their own resources. I think it is something we need to do a lot more on. We should be looking for more, not less. Because once you have your own resources, once you have them probably forever. Whereas every you have to be going back every time to the governments for extra funding for their contributions. And this is latched on to by particularly populous saying we're paying so much and not getting enough out. So I think certainly I would ask the commission, would they consider doing a PR campaign to expand, not contract the own resources, and maybe also look at other means by which they can be extended? Thank you very much.”
  Own EU resources
• “Thank you, Mr. President and Commissioner. First of all, I would like to congratulate Anna Sturghkh and all the shadow rapporteurs for their excellent cooperation on this important report. This report is timely and strategic, and I look forward to seeing our recommendations taken up by the Commission in the forthcoming Greens package later this year. I will make one point very clear. European competitiveness and net zero will not happen without a massively expanded and modernized electricity grid. I understand the calling for more lines, cables and pylons can come with its political sensitivities for some here, but the reality is simple no new grids means no clean energy, no energy security, and no competitive future for European industry. In our report, we make a strong call for ambition in our approach to grid. In reality, we need to work backwards from our 2050 net zero objective. What are the key grid reinforcements we need? How do we drive interconnection and complete energy union? How do we unlock the offshore wind potential of the Atlantic and Northern seas? And how do we finally move from vision to delivery on the European super grid? This requires long term planning, political ambition and investment visibility so that supply chains can scale up and strategic infrastructure is built. Lastly, and crucially, we need to fix the issues of planning and permitting across Europe. Critical projects have been delayed for years and even decades by a combination of red tape, objectors and legal processes. If we do not build grid, Europe will be both uncompetitive and high emitting the worst of both worlds. The grids package is an opportunity to deliver division of this report and ensure this does not happen. Margaret.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “10:20 – 10:11:42): Thank you very much. I support what Peter Lisa and my EPP colleagues have said in relation to supporting the ETS. It is a key market-based instrument for emissions reduction, and it's a tried and proven system. We do have targets for emissions reductions, and anything that would interfere with the effective instruments which we use to bring that about, I think would send a wrong signal, and we'll probably put in jeopardy our chances of reaching our targets, which we are legally bound to do. Everything we can to reach. ETS is a tried and proven system, and it brings predictability to businesses and what they're likely to do. So any postponement or any amendments on ETS 2 would undermine, I think, the effectiveness of the policy, and moving the goalpost would cause businesses to probably stop investments, and that's the last thing we want. So predictability, desirability, and legal requirements and practicality all suggest that what Peter Lisa is saying, I think, makes sense, and I support it. Thank you very much.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “The volatile global energy market is once again wreaking havoc on European wholesale electricity prices and consumer bills. I welcome the continued commitments by the North Sea countries to realise the enormous potential of our renewable resources in north Western Europe. The North Seas, including the Irish and Celtic Seas, have enough resources to power the whole of Europe, and I think delivering on this potential needs to be our number one focus in the ongoing work on the grid package. The Nazis are, in reality, our only realistic pathway to true energy independence. But not enough progress has been made. Planning systems continue to delay rollout, and this compounds the major supply chain bottlenecks that our project developers experience. We need joined up thinking across Planning and permitting. Industrial policy, grid development and things like joint support schemes and market arrangements. Failure to develop the North Seas potential will condemn another generation of Europeans to high and uncontrollable electricity prices any further.”
  Off-shore renewables
• “For over a year on from the Draghi report. And how are we doing? Not too well, I'm afraid, as Mr. Draghi himself warned recently, we need a step change in the EU's action. Competitiveness depends fundamentally on two things affordable energy and technological leadership. Yet both are being undermined by delays to the infrastructure we urgently need, from power grids to semiconductor foundries. Today, half of the Greek capacity required by 2030 has not yet entered the delivery phase, and even projects that have been approved are facing delays of up to five years because of permitting bottlenecks. This will not cut it. So what must change first? Europe needs a truly coordinated investment and planning strategy for cross-border infrastructure. That includes completing the Capital Markets Union so that European savings can be put to work. Second, we must cut the red tape holding projects back. We need to reform planning systems to speed up, permitting, and make it more attractive for private capital to invest. We must redouble our efforts or else watch as Europe gets left behind. Mr. Draghi should do an annual report on each country, rating them from 1 to 27, and how they are performing. And as the greats said a long time ago, we really need strong action in these regards.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “Commissioner, the number of jamming and spoofing incidents targeting global navigation satellite systems has risen at an alarming rate, with an estimated 140,000 flights affected in 2024 alone. This is a real threat and is one that has already cost lives. Tragically, 38 people perished on an Azerbaijan Airlines flight in December and there have been several near misses since. Sadly, these incidents are likely to continue, particularly with the increase in the use of hybrid warfare tactics deployed by Russia and other hostile actors. This is a direct attack on Europe's safety and our connectivity and our strategic autonomy. The satellite constellations underpinning GNSS are essential to aviation, shipping, energy, agriculture and the smooth functioning of our entire economy. That is why Europe must act with resolve. And I welcome the Commission's statement of intent in this regard this evening, particularly investing in our Galileo system.”
  EU competences on space policy
• “03:36 – 11:05:39): Thank you very much and thanks to the commission for the presentation. I agree overall with the policy. Obviously, ETS is important; decarbonization is very important. But I was somewhat surprised that for the vast majority of member states, the revenues from the ETS were going into the general budget. In other words, it isn't going for decarbonization at all, possibly. Even when it was going to industry, it wasn't seen to be prioritizing decarbonization and also carbon leakage, which is a direct result of some of the messages we're trying to send, that didn't seem to be included either. So my question for the commission is how are they going to change that? And also in relation to the general public, most people, let's say, haven't a clue what ETS is. What can we do to change that, particularly to try and get the message across to them that ETS is good for business, it's good for the environment, and it's good for you? That's the key point. There are just too many eurosceptics and anti-Europeans out there who have a field day because we're not doing enough to promote it. While the websites rightly say funded by the EU, I think we could tie this in with Ursula von der Leyen's campaign for Made in Europe. I would ask the commission, would they consider doing public posturing and public advertising, like at bus stops and countrywide, showing the benefits of this ETS and also tying in with the overall policy of Europe? Because citizens need to know that Europe is good for you. All they're hearing is the opposite, and I think there's an opportunity here to do it. Thank you very much.”
  Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
• “Europe is home to some of the finest universities, laboratories and research centers in the world. Our scientists lead breakthroughs in medicine and clean technologies, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. These institutions are one of Europe's greatest competitive advantages. For this reason, we must do what we can to ensure this sector continues to thrive. That means ensuring removing barriers and borders and providing the funds our researchers need. The ERA must deliver a truly single market for research, innovation and technology. We need to see ideas, knowledge and talent move as freely as goods and capital do in our single market. We need to invest in nurturing talent and strengthen mobility for researchers across the union, particularly in critical fields such as digital technologies, artificial intelligence and clean tech. It also means reversing the brain drain. We need to make the European Union the most attractive place in the world to conduct research. For countries like Ireland, this is particularly important. Over the past quarter century, Ireland has built a globally respected research base, supported by strong collaboration between academia, enterprise and government. But in the fast moving global economy, Europe will be left behind if we remain fragmented. A strong research area ensures a similar innovation driven economies can connect their excellence to the scale of the European Union. Just in time.”
  Research priorities within the EU
• “Commissioner, let's get one thing out of the way first. The Iberian Peninsula remains almost an energy island. That's ridiculous. In 2025, we need a binding interconnection target so that no member state continues to be left isolated. But let us not fall into the trap of blaming this blackout just on interconnection, and certainly not on renewables. We know we can run a power system with high volumes of wind and solar, but to do so securely, we need to expand and modernise our grid urgently. We also need to ensure the rollout of essential supportive technologies. Things like synchronous condensers, flywheels, storage with fast frequency response. These are the unsung heroes of a resilient net zero grid. Delivering resilience means three things one. Roll out renewables at a scale to deliver energy independence two modernize and expand the grid as a matter of urgency, including interconnection. Three invest hard in the key technologies that deliver things like inertia, reserves and stability. Let that be the real lesson from April 28th from Margaret.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “Thank you very much. Happy New Year to you all. And if we can implement those 235 projects which you mentioned, we'll be doing very well. So we start on a positive note. The publication of the second PCI and PML list is a very welcome step, and it sets out some of the critical projects which we've just heard we need to deliver in the years ahead if we are to deliver on our parallel climate and competitiveness objectives. I think it's worth stating the obvious, that you cannot have an energy union on paper without the physical infrastructure to deliver it. And in recent years, our outdated infrastructure has become the central bottleneck to progress, as has been mentioned. We need expanded and modernized infrastructure for renewable deployment, for industry, for electrification, for affordability, and ultimately for Europe's energy security and independence. This PCI list, together with the recently published grids package and the proposed Energy Highways, excuse me, shows that the Commission now clearly recognizes that reality. Electricity infrastructure in particular, is something we need to address. And I'm confident with these measures we are finally getting on the right track. From an Irish perspective, I also want to warmly welcome the inclusion of key Irish projects on this list, notably the North South, which is going on for years, and the Celtic Interconnectors and the Silver Mines Pumped Hydro Storage project, which I was involved in for a number of years.”
  EU energy infrastructure integration
• “21:40 – 11:26:24): Thank you very much, Chair. Delighted to present my interim thoughts on this topic. So before going any further, I must address the fundamental issue that we are facing before us, and that is funding or lack thereof. All the challenges we face in creating a CAP that truly delivers for farmers and for the environment leads back to this. We need increased funding overall, and we need ring-fenced funding for environmental measures as a top priority, coming from outside the ring-fenced allocation for income support. Farmers and foresters are expected to be the implementers of the majority of the EU's climate policies and ambitions, yet do we reward them fairly for this role? We cannot continue to expect farmers to deliver the EU's environmental ambitions without providing the necessary financial backing. At the same time, the commission's new approach to the CAP through the establishment of national regional partnership plans and the abolition of the two-pillar system has created more financial uncertainty for farmers and for the environmental ambitions of the Union. The cuts to direct CAP budget allocations will not help sustainability. They will not attract young farmers into the sector. They will not deliver a more attractive and predictable agri-food system. Predictability is critical. Farmers plan in years and decades, not in political cycles. If we undermine certainty, we undermine both sustainability and competitiveness. For this reason, I aim to ensure that the CAP protects member states' ability to continue with their current suite of measures, meaning they don't have to start from square one developing new schemes and infrastructure. We've all witnessed the farmers' protests across Europe and here on our doorstep over the last number of years, and we have heard what the farmers have had to say. The task that lays before us here is to balance sustainability with competitiveness. No more red tape. We need a simplified CAP that truly makes the lives of farmers easier, for instance by ensuring small farmers can access eco-schemes without requiring them to complete a mountain of paperwork. This is why I've suggested the introduction of a comparative system on any additional administrative obligations for beneficiaries against existing obligations. I also want to ensure stronger support for investment in innovation and digital tools that improve farm management and reduce workload. Precision farming techniques, data-driven nutrient management, and other digital technologies can deliver real environmental benefits while maintaining productivity. Digitalization would be crucial to the future of EU farming if we want to remain competitive globally. Support for innovation is, in my view, one of the key ways to reconcile productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness while enabling broader transitions in farming systems. If we invest wisely in technology and knowledge transfer, we can reduce emissions, improve biodiversity outcomes, and enhance farm incomes at the same time. Working under a tight timeline, I decided on the approach of submitting a preliminary proposal for this file, and I'm looking forward to contributing more when the amendments open. Finally, colleagues, I speak from experience when I say that I know it is a difficult task to separate the ENVI competencies from the AGRI competencies in this file, but I encourage you to try to keep your amendments within the scope of this opinion, and we will do our best to find the best compromises possible. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Uh, no. Russia committed a serious error. But it also showed us that dependency on Russia for our gas supplies, as dependency on China for critical raw materials is not good for us. But at the same time, we do have an obligation to support Ukraine because they are actually fighting our war. It has been estimated that if Russia is not curtailed in five years time, they will have the capacity to attack Europe. Is that what you want? No. So I think the policies in relation to Ukraine, in relation to weaning ourselves off fossil fuels from Russia is the correct one. And the sooner it happens, the better for everybody.”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• “(10:53:54 – 10:59:17): You very much, and welcome to our colleagues from our neighboring countries and particularly Ukraine. We stand a 100% with them in their struggle for sovereignty and for independence. So the energy community was set up to bring our neighbors into a common European energy system based on shared rules and enhanced cooperation, bringing mutual benefits and close integration. In the time sensitive setup, an awful lot has changed, and we are now living through a period of sustained geopolitical instability with energy supply being right at the center of it. If there is 1 lesson from the past number of years for both EU and the wider energy community, it is that dependence on imported fossil fuels leaves us completely exposed. And nowhere is that more obvious than with Russia as our colleagues have said. We cannot continue to fund a regime that is waging war on our continent by purchasing its oil and gas, nor can we leave ourselves open to the kind of pressure and disruption that comes with that dependence. At both EU and energy community level, we have to urgently phase out Russian gas and oil. This is critical to reduce the flows of money to the Russian war machine, but also for our own energy security. The EU has already delivered an ambitious plan to phase out gas. Now we need to both deliver and build on this, and that applies across the energy community countries, not just within the European Union. Even beyond Russia, the system we have built around imported fossil fuels leaves us completely vulnerable. Price shocks are happening more frequently, and they are hitting households and businesses hard. What we used to call exceptional is now becoming the new normal. As long as we are reliant on these imports, we will continue to deal with that price volatility. There's only 1 solution. We need to move towards energy independence. For Europe and for the energy community, that means scaling up what we can produce ourselves, renewables, electrification, storage, and the grids to make it all work. All these technologies are available, are proven, and they're already being deployed. We just have to do it faster. We are too slow on permitting, too slow on infrastructure, too slow to remove the barriers that we all know are there. We need to see a real delivery on the ground, more projects built, more capacity connected, and fewer obstacles in the way. I'd be interested to hear from our energy community colleagues about how they see this and what their experience is on the ground. Are there markets encouraging the same problems and how do they propose to address them? In the end, the only way to take control of our energy future is reducing our dependence on nefarious external suppliers, most of all, Russia. Thank you very much. Thank you, Sean. And now mister Nicolas Gonzalez Cazares from S and D. Thank you. I will speak in Spanish now. I'd like to add that over the last few years, we've all seen how fossil fuels have been exploited, used as weapons to attack our economies, but also to strengthen Putin's war machine. So the s and d clearly supports this goal to put a stop to our dependence on Russian gas because it's been a strategic approach. Our increasing dependence increasing independence from Russian gas should be seen as a strategic approach, but also consistent with our common energy project. Therefore, I'd ask the commission, you seem to be ignoring the phase out of petrol as well. And also, perhaps you could something about nuclear energy as well because this will have a direct and indirect impacts on the contracting parties of the energy community, looking at the focus on gas and its supply infrastructure with possible impact on supply elsewhere and on the internal market as well. But all of these problems would be even worse if we were dependent on third parties. So we have to put a stop to Russian dependence on Russian gas because otherwise, we'll be exposing ourselves to further vulnerabilities. So our challenge is to look at decarbonization, not to continue to invest in fossil fuels. We need to diversify, but also focus on more renewables, better energy efficiency, better interconnectivity, and better regional planning. Furthermore, I think we need to ensure a socially, fair transition, which will allow us to, support all the countries of the energy community and support the electrification of our economies because without this, we will be unable to reap all the benefits of the energy transition, especially for the most vulnerable amongst us. Thank you. Daniela Baytak from ECR.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources) · Energy (green transition)