Ciarán Cuffe, a Green Party Member of the European Parliament (MEP), asserts that vital steps need taking to address the migration crisis at a European level. He believes that leaving people to drown in the Mediterranean, putting children in concrete detention centres at national borders, and increasing development aid should not be instances that occur within the European Union (EU).
Mr. Cuffe made these comments during the unveiling of the Green Party’s manifesto ahead of the impending European elections. As per the manifesto for the 2024 European elections, the Green Party commits to a migration policy that upholds humane, fair and practical international protection. It envisions a system that values human rights and is doable and effective.
Senator Pauline O’Reilly, a candidate for MEP, stated that the party favours a migration system that allows people to reunite with their families. She noted that there is a skills gap in Ireland where migrants could substantially contribute. She spoke about how the migration discussion doesn’t frequently come up in conversations but that it’s an issue that can’t be ignored.
O’Reilly’s comments also implied that Europe should not consider the migration issue resolved due to the EU’s Asylum and Migration Pact. While it addresses asylum cases, the problem of migration still persists. The pact intends to bring alterations to the asylum-seeking process, aiming for a more efficient return of unsuccessful applicants and speeding up the process for those with clear credentials.
In reaction to the current state of affairs, MEP Grace O’Sullivan echoed the sentiment that increased investment is necessary. She emphasised that there is an unequivocal need for more construction and extended services for newcomers. However, she also stressed that the existing residents grappling with the cost of living should not be neglected.
A significant portion of the Irish electorate who voice their opinions believe immigration has broadly been beneficial for the country. However, they also support stricter asylum policies and increased government efforts to expel unsuccessful asylum seekers.
Discussing Ireland’s recent acknowledgement of Palestine as a state, along with Spain and Norway, Ms O’Sullivan highlighted its significance, especially in light of what she perceived as the EU’s detached stance since she joined the European Parliament in 2019.
The 2024 manifesto of her party emphasised the importance of probing violations of the EU Israel Association Agreement, and proposed a temporary halt to its operations until peaceful resolution of the ongoing tensions.
Ms. O’Sullivan stressed that Ireland, Spain and Norway’s endorsement can collectively compel Israel to reconsider their current strategies.
While addressing the European Parliament, Ms. O’Sullivan elaborated that members who weren’t part of a powerful group with impactful vision and policies, were essentially sidelined. She underlined this as the strength of the Green party.
Their 2024 manifesto is dedicated to uphold the Green Deal, the doctrines of a democratic EU and to block the extreme right from gaining any significant hold. The manifesto also proposes the enforcement and adoption of the Nature Restoration Law.
Senator O’Reilly referred this as the forefront issue during discussions in the Midlands-North-West constituency and stressed the need to re-focus attention on the matter.
The party’s manifesto commits to advocating for a Green and social transition fund to finance green infrastructure projects, public transport, renewable energy and power grid connections. They propose also to reform EU budgetary and euro-zone stability arrangements to ensure that austerity is never again necessitated and public investment is safeguarded during economic slumps.
Furthermore, they plan on boosting the DiscoverEU travel programme by annually providing free interrail tickets to every 18-year-old.