MEP (FG) for Munster since 1989; Vice-President, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Security and Defence Policy

This Parliament's contribution? Has played a major role in bringing the euro into being which will lead to lower mortgages, interest charges, inflation, protect the value of pensions, reduce holiday costs . . .

Own proudest achievement? As a member of the Institutional Affairs committee in the first half of Parliament, I played a significant role in shaping Parliament's response to the Amsterdam treaty and as VP of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the second half, I played a key role in the enlargement process

Frustration? Losing the battle to reverse duty-free. The difficult lifestyle. The lack of coverage given to EP issues

Absences from sessions: 51

Motions for resolution: 39

Reports: one (plus one contribution)

Questions: 74

Debates: 61

Teacher's note: One of the more serious MEPs. Respected, hard worker at constituency and Parliament level, where he contributes on a range of issues