A candidate for Fianna Fáil.
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Biography
Prior to entering politics, Niall Blaney was a civil engineering technician for Donegal County Council. He replaced his father as a TD and held the seat for Donegal North-East from 2002 to 2011. He was also co-chair of the British/Irish Parliamentary Assembly. He was elected as a Senator in 2020.
Question time
What do you deem the most important issue for the European Union now and what would you like to see happen in that area?
There's no one single issue. At a macro level, migration must be addressed and the impact it is having on our towns and cities. The war in Ukraine, the awful conflict in Gaza and energy security will be uppermost.
What group will you be aligned with in the European Parliament, should you win a seat? What do you see as their priorities?
Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe Group (ALDE), (Renew).
Why should someone vote for you?
I'm a border candidate from a strong farming background, but the sectors' needs have been overlooked for the past ten years with no strong representation in Strasbourg and Brussels. I want to remedy that situation and put the needs of our region back in the EU spotlight. In Ireland, it's about getting a better deal for our farmers, indeed for the five border counties. The north west is one of the poorest regions in the EU and it has to be given a voice. The development of offshore wind and a commitment to undertake significant road and rail projects in MNW will require EU support. Priorities for me include an extension of the Nitrates Derogation and the successful renegotiation of the CAP.
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