To whom this may concern,
Following the commentary “No, Ireland’s Rising Star is Michael McGrath, Ignore the Cynics” (Insight & Analysis by Barry Andrews, 18th of September), I am compelled to pen a reply. Though Ireland consistently maintains its impressive impact in the European Union, it would be foolhardy to inflate our influence and overlook some glaring issues that need addressing. It is evident that in the last half a decade, Ireland’s stronghold in the European Commission has gone from an influential position to a comparatively lesser role.
Moreover, we are in an adjusting phase to re-strategise our approach towards a European Union that no longer includes the UK. The notion that Ireland’s victory in securing EU agency bids is due to internal politicking within European parliamentary factions, is overly simplistic. Particularly noteworthy was that none of the Renew delegates backed Dublin in the final decision to host the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering Authority. In reality, we must develop new strategies to secure support from smaller EU members to counter the monopolising bids by goliath states such as Germany and France.
Improving our approach will clearly require finer tactics than dissenting the European Commission’s president and hoping for reciprocity.
At its core, EU influence stems from long-term partnerships and trust, utilised to meet strategic objectives. While our support from the UK on key economic issues is no longer guaranteed in today’s EU climate, we are nevertheless far from isolated.
As indicated by Eoin Drea in his takes (“Michael McGrath’s new role in Europe shows just how far Ireland’s stock has fallen”, Opinion & Analysis, September 17th), this shift presents potential for Irish leadership in forming an alliance with similarly-aimed smaller member states.
Across the Government, there is recognition of this approach and various significant initiatives are underway, such as promoting Irish applicants for roles in the European Commission. As the EU navigates unprecedented geopolitical, economic, and fiscal challenges, it is crucial we discern what works for us, what doesn’t, and perpetually refresh our approach to fully utilise our influence for all Europeans.
Sincerely yours,
REGINA DOHERTY, MEP.
Is it possible to request reimbursement for a relative’s care costs from their assets?
The prohibition: How did silencing Sinn Féin impact the political environment?
An unpleasant hotel upgrade: Despite my earnest plea to Loveholidays to revert to my prior reservation, they refused.
‘Beneath the Angels: A Historical Overview of Sex and Christianity’ review: An authoritative piece on religious perspectives on sexuality.
The Fine Gael political party in the Dublin constituency,
Brussels.