Dr Umar Al-Qadri is a qualified theologian and jurist. He is the Chairperson of the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council and Head Imam at the Islamic Centre of Ireland. He is also the owner of a Halal food certification body and a father to three children.

Europe faces the dual challenge of continuing its mandate to expand membership to qualified countries that are genuinely democratic and European in character and ensuring that such expansion would not inhibit our economic stability. I believe we can do both and in so doing strengthen Europe, stop the growth of extremism of all kinds and ensure the diversity that has been at the centre of European growth and prosperity continues to assist Ireland. The growing trend of extremism seeks to up-end Ireland’s ethic of kindness, compassion and civility. We must confront the minority of extremists who want to change Ireland and Europe in ways incompatible with our values and ethics. We can and must ensure the EU endures as a moderating and successful experiment in democracy and cooperation for our sake and that of our children.

The European Democratic Party (Renew), European Free Alliance (Greens & ECR) and European People’s Party all have strong appeal. Each are pro-European, centrist and have strong records of cooperation for the common good. If I am honoured to be elected as your MEP the party I will align with will be the one most likely to deliver on key issues for Dubliners, Ireland and the health, welfare and stability of the EU. One of the benefits of being an Independent is the flexibility to choose party alignment once the election results indicate which is best positioned to serve the Dubliners I would represent.

I’m a European. Having grown-up in the Netherlands I chose to make Dublin my home more than 21 years ago. I remember the day I got the letter confirming my Irish citizenship to be one of the happiest days of my life.

Dublin was where I made my home, started a business, contributed to the community as an activist and where I raised my children. If you elect me as your MEP, I promise I will fight to see that every Dubliner (regardless of their economic, educational, social, religious, ethnic or other attributes) is given every opportunity to achieve their goals and dreams to enjoy a stable life as stakeholders in our great democracy and society.

I’ve been blessed the Irish people have made me feel included and valued. As your MEP, I will fight to make sure Europe helps to make sure you are included and valued and included in Dublin, Europe and throughout the world.