MacManus calls for direct engagement between MLAs and MEPs to be formalised
 
Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus has told the European Parliament that north of Ireland citizens are disenfranchised, as they have no input into EU legislation that affects them. MacManus called for formal and structured direct engagement between the Assembly and the European Parliament.
 
Speaking from the European Parliament, MacManus firstly congratulated Sinn Féin Vice-President Michelle O´Neill on becoming the first Irish Citizen to take up the role of First-Minster. 
 
MacManus said;
 
“On Saturday, history was made. The Assembly in the north of Ireland elected an Irish citizen, a republican, a pro-Irish Unity First Minister and I want to congratulate Michelle O´Neill on her election to that role.”
 
“We must harness the full potential of this decade of opportunity. Now is the time for the European Parliament and the Belfast Assembly to begin formalising direct engagement between our two institutions.”
 
“Many laws of the EU’s single market apply in the north. However, we have a Democratic deficit. Direct engagement between MLAs and MEPs will allow two million Irish and British citizens in the north of Ireland have a platform for their views to be represented in the policy making process.”
 
MacManus concluded by calling on MEPs to consider the potential for a United Ireland in the EU.
 
“A united Ireland inside the EU has huge potential. Let us all work together, to help bring about that future, as outlined in the Good Friday Agreement. ENDS