Failure to back von der Leyen would be “disastrous” – MEP Kelly

Ahead of next week’s vote, Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, has called on all Irish MEPs, and Fianna Fáil MEPs in particular, to support Ursula von der Leyen in her bid for re-election as President of the European Commission. “Given the global and European political landscape right now, it is more important than ever to maintain a strong, centrist leadership” Kelly said, citing “the growing threat of far-right movements in Europe”.

MEPs are due to vote on the Commission President’s bid for a second term in Strasbourg next Thursday. “We need unity now more than ever, and Irish MEPs, particularly government parties, must look at the bigger picture. Former Finance Minister, Michael McGrath, has been nominated by the government to be Ireland’s next Commissioner, it would be disastrous if Irish MEPs, particularly those in his own party and European political grouping, do not support the next Commission President. Not just because they would be opening the door to volatility in the EU, there would also be little hope of getting a significant portfolio in the Commission” Kelly warned.

Speaking from Brussels, Kelly highlighted von der Leyen’s achievements over her first term, which included navigating the complexities of Brexit, coordinating the EU’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and standing firm with Ukraine during its ongoing conflict with Russia. “Under her leadership, the EU has shown unprecedented solidarity and resilience. Her response to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the vaccine strategy and the NextGenerationEU recovery plan, has been significant.”

“It has been said before, but Europe really is at a crossroads. We have moved on from Brexit, but the fact is it has reshaped the continent in political terms, we also have an active war in Europe and the possibility another Trump Presidency in the US. These are significant destabilising factors that need to be taken into account. We must hold the centre and ensure that our leadership is stable, experienced, and committed to democratic values. Ursula von der Leyen has demonstrated her capability to manage crises and deliver results for the EU and Ireland.”

“I have let the Commission President know in person that her initial response to the Gaza conflict was a mistake. It was outside of her competency, and I have advocated directly for more EU action to protect innocent Palestinians. However, my position on Gaza is unquestionable, and I stand firm in my beliefs,” Kelly underlined.

“I urge all Irish MEPs to support President von der Leyen’s re-election for the stability and future of the European Union. Otherwise, they should propose realistic alternatives.”