Why I want to go to Europe
Hello, I’m Barry Cowen, and I’m a Fianna Fáil candidate for the Midlands North West in the European elections on June 7th.
I’m a family man, a community man, hailing from Offaly. I have a track record of delivering for communities and I am asking you to give me an opportunity to bring the issues of the midlands, of Leinster of the North west, issues of significance, to a European level.
I believe I can make a mark for the region, make a difference and address many issues of concern more effectively on the European stage.
My priorities are:
- Sustainable food production
- Achieving energy security giving greater ownership and delivery of just transition to communities
- In addition to protecting our tax regime while supporting innovation
Food sustainability
I recognise the importance of making life easier for our farmers by incentivising and rewarding their hard work.
As your MEP, I will back policies which protect and support sustainable farming and food production. A top priority will be rewarding environmental delivery.
Farmers need to feel appreciated, and more invested in and be front loaded with profits that will be repaid by maintaining and enhancing food quality.
Energy
Too much power here is land based, there’s not enough battery storage and regulators should be more robustly focused on Ireland’s needs and on better and cost-efficient sources of energy.
There is enormous potential to be gained from offshore wind development in Irish coastal waters.
Ireland needs to leapfrog others to become the global leader of an industry that could be worth €300 BILLION by 2050 – that number is more or less the current worth of the Irish economy.
Innovation
I will be the strong voice Ireland needs on innovation if elected to European parliament on June 7th. Europe needs a renewed commitment to deliver policy that champions innovation.
It’s time ‘now’ to innovate then regulate. This change is essential before Europe and Ireland fall too far behind other global competitors.
My priority is regional balance across the region. My top commitment is to have employment in these areas, many of those jobs are going to come through technology and innovation.
barrycowen.com 