Sinn Féin spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Matt Carthy TD, has called on the Irish government and EU candidates to clearly state that they will not support the reappointment of Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission President.

Deputy Carthy said that von der Leyen had ‘damaged the credibility of the European Union’ through her partisan interventions in support of Israel during the onslaught on Gaza.

Teachta Carthy said:

“In offering Netanyahu unconditional and unqualified support at a pivotal and escalating point in Israel’s onslaught against the civilian population of Gaza, Ursula von der Leyen provided political cover for the genocidal destruction that has unfolded in front of our eyes.

“As a neutral state with an independent foreign policy, Ireland can proudly point to our consistency in demanding adherence to international law, international humanitarian law and the UN charter. By claiming to speak for Europe, Ursula von der Leyen undermined efforts to secure a ceasefire and save countless lives in Gaza.

“Competency for foreign policy at a European Union level lies with the European Council at which each member state has a veto. Ursula von der Leyen’s actions were in clear and direct contravention of this reality. She should not be rewarded with a second term in office.

“The Irish government must clearly state that they will not support the re-appointment of Ursula von der Leyen. So too should all candidates contesting the European elections considering one of the first tasks of new MEPs will be to ratify the nomination for Commission president. The Irish government must also state that it will defend Ireland’s neutrality and our independent foreign policy against any efforts to undermine our ability to play a positive and constructive role in the world.”