‘There should be no Irish votes for von der Leyen’ - Gavan

SINN FEIN’s European election candidate for Ireland South Paul Gavan says there should be “no Irish votes” for the re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as commission president.

The German has launched her campaign to be re-elected to the top of the influential body.

But Senator Gavan, who is based in Castleconnell, feels her presidency has caused “serious concern” for Ireland across a number of areas.

“I am absolutely clear that there should be no Irish votes for Ursula von der Leyen in her bid to be re-elected for a second term as president of the European Commission. Her presidency has caused serious concern for Ireland on a number of key issues and it is clear that she must not be allowed to continue in her role with another term,” he said.

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He pointed to her handling of the crisis in Gaza caused by the Israel-Palestine war, saying her response has been “appalling” and “seriously damaged the EU’s credibility as a partner for peace and an honest broker for any future negotiations”.

Her unwillingness to call for an immediate ceasefire and sustainable peace is a mark of shame for the EU, added Mr Gavan.

He added his concern about her “militarisation agenda” for the EU, which he fears runs counter to Irish neutrality.

This, the Senator said, must be “protected at all costs.”