Fine Gael TD Patrick O’Donovan has criticized what he called the “Political antics of Sinn Féin” in their attempts to undermine Ireland’s chances of getting the important Agricultural Position within the EU Commission. Patrick O’Donovan was reacting to what he called a “Spate of criticism from Sinn Féin’s three MEP’s” which he said could damage Irish agriculture and for Irish farmers.
“Agriculture is one of Ireland’s most important assets and it would be hugely beneficial to our economy and to farming families across the State if we are able to secure the Agriculture position from EU Commission President Jean Claude Juncker who comes from the same political grouping as Fine Gael in Europe, the European People’s Party. However to have the attacks launched in Strasbourg by Irish MEP’s against the Irish Government’s nominee for the job, Phil Hogan, is not in the best interests of Ireland or of Irish farmers.”
“Traditionally all Irish Parties have worked together in the interest of the country within the European Parliament, on matters of national importance. To obtain this position would be hugely important for people across Ireland, regardless of which political party they vote for, and that’s why it is vital that all of our MEP’s and Oireachtas members unite behind the Irish nominee to ensure that he is appointed as the next EU Agriculture Commissioner.”
Patrick O’Donovan said that he believed that the tactics being used by Sinn Féin are endangering Ireland’s potential to develop its agri-food sector further and added that the politicking by that party could have a major impact on Irish farming families.
“The Minister for Agriculture, the leaders of the farming organisations together with commentators from across the agri-food sectors have all said that it is vital for Ireland that we secure the Agriculture portfolio. This attempt by Sinn Féin to attract publicity and gain political advantage is damaging those efforts and does nothing to promote Ireland’s interest in Europe.”