Carlow-Kilkenny TD Kathleen Funchion has announced that she is to seek a nomination to stand for Sinn Féin in Ireland South in the upcoming European elections.  

Speaking following the announcement, Kathleen Funchion said:  

“I have long been interested in strengthening Ireland’s voice within the EU. I first contested the European elections in 2009 and now that my children are older this is the right time for me to take on this new challenge and seek election to the European Parliament.  

“The European Union is crucial for Ireland’s future and I believe Ireland needs strong vocal representation in the European Parliament to influence the future direction of the EU. We need representatives who will not hesitate to call out the EU when needed, in particular if it is not acting in the best interest of the Irish people.  

“The South East also needs to be represented in the European Parliament. In making the decision to contest I was conscious that it is time that the interests of the South East are properly represented and that this region has a voice to ensure that it is not ignored in terms of investment and economic development as it has often been.

“If elected to the European Parliament, I will work to ensure the European Union gets back to basics, focusing on issues such as poverty, inequality, tackling the cost of living and investing in regional development.  As a former Trade Union organiser, I want to ensure that expanding and improving worker’s rights is an EU priority.

“Maintaining Ireland’s veto in Foreign Affairs and Defence, protecting Irish neutrality and opposing increased EU military spending will also be among my priorities if elected as an MEP.      

“This is a time of huge potential and opportunity for Ireland. If elected as an MEP for Ireland South I want to be part of delivering that positive change that communities, workers and families need.”