Ireland's place is and always will be at the heart of the European Union. The values of solidarity, partnership, cooperation, which are central to the European project, have brought Ireland from a position of being one of the least developed Member States when we joined, to one of the most prosperous today. We need experienced people to represent us in Europe where vital decisions occur every day, decisions that will profoundly influence the future of Dublin and our country.

 

 

As Dublin’s MEP, Frances will;

 

Put Dublin at the centre of EU policy decisions.

Fine Gael’s place in the heart of the European People’s Party, the largest party in the European Parliament, ensures Frances will have influence beyond Ireland’s relatively small numbers. Frances will amplify the voices of Dublin citizens as to the future direction of the European Union.

 

Protect EU values and safeguard democracy.

The European Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. Frances will defend these essential elements of society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail. Frances will re-affirm Fine Gael’s values of integrity and openness in our dealings with colleagues in the European Parliament and stand up for the rights of LGBTQI and other groups that face continued discrimination within and outside the EU.

 

Defend Ireland’s corporate tax rate.

Ireland’s corporation tax rate has been at 12.5% for decades and that is not going to change.  Frances will support maintaining the principle of unanimity on tax issues.

 

Call for the European Commission’s commitment to the continuation of the current PEACE and INTERREG funding programmes between our border counties and communities in Northern Ireland in all scenarios beyond 2020.

 

Host a series of regular ‘Dublin Dialogues’ to get your feedback on the future of Europe.

Building on the framework of the Citizens’ Assembly, Frances wants to hear your thoughts on the future of Europe and Ireland’s place in it. These discussions will feed into Frances’ policy making decisions and the wider European debate.

 

Protect Irish businesses in a no-deal Brexit scenario.

The EU should be prepared to assist Irish businesses in the event of a no-deal Brexit scenario. Frances will work to ensure that Irish businesses that trade with the UK have access to transitional relief funding through the EU 7-year budget if the UK leaves without a deal.