Fianna Fail

Ireland has matured and grown into today's confident young nation and in many ways is seen as a model for others. We have a thriving economy, a bustling workplace and a confident step in our stride as we move towards the new millennium and the new challenges it brings.

Our country has undergone great economic and social change since Jack Lynch brought us into the then Common Market in 1973. The barometer of change has been the funding we have received from Brussels since we joined. That funding -over £22 billion in direct grant aid - has transformed our economy, how we live, how we work and the make up of our society.

Over the last 12 years in particular, of all the countries in the European Union, Ireland has made the most spectacular progress. Our average living standards per head have risen from 58 per cent of the EU average in 1986, to an estimated 87 per cent this year.

In the European Parliament - arguably the biggest democratic institution in Europe - Fianna Fail MEPs will continue to work for one goal - the betterment of our country and society.

We face two major challenges in the immediate future. The first, the introduction of the single currency, the euro will affect all our lives as our new shared currency which will make trade easier, cut the cost of doing business and end currency instability which hits economic growth and jobs. The new currency will provide greater opportunity to further develop a sound approach to the management of our public finances. It will also lead to lower average interest rates which if managed carefully will be good news for investment, good for job creation, and good news for borrowers and mortgage holders.

The second major development will be that of enlargement, when other countries become members of the EU. This creates a new range of opportunities and challenges for Ireland.

I believe in people centred Government - in Ireland and in Europe as a whole. This means working to ensure the best quality of life for all. For me this means a Europe that is committed to national inclusion, a Europe that cherishes all its citizens equally.

There are many key issues that must be addressed at European level. These include balanced urban and rural development, the future growth of Irish agriculture and of course environmental protection. I want to see continued European investment in training and education as the best means to boost employment. These are the real building blocks of a real people's Europe.

With its new powers the European Parliament is playing an even greater role in all our lives. For that reason it is vital that Ireland has the strongest possible team in Europe. Fianna Fail's team of candidates in this European election has the determination and energy to ensure that Ireland's concerns are always to the fore in Europe.

In Fianna Fail we always put people before politics. Ireland needs a strong voice in Europe that puts people first. Please support the Fianna Fail team on June 11th and make sure your voice is heard in Europe. Your future is our priority.