Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ex-Carlow Kilkenny TD now MEP Kathleen Funchion assigned to key European Parliament Committees.
Her first week witnessed the former Carlow Kilkenny TD, now Ireland South MEP, linked to the Regional Development Committee, the Employment Committee and the FEMM (Women’s Rights) Committee.
She states; “I am looking forward to working on these three critical committees, to ensure that the best possible conclusions are made for people at home in the Ireland South constituency. I will stand up for the representatives of ordinary workers and families and battle to ensure they get the investment and prioritisation they need.
How will Funchion address regional investment issues in Ireland?
She expressed that on the Regional Development Committee, she will fight for regionally balanced investment that ensures communities across Ireland get fair opportunities and funding. “Too many parts of our nation feel they have been left behind and lack critical infrastructure that is long overdue. I know that balanced investment is the legend to unlocking Ireland’s potential and will ensure no community is left behind.”
What are Funchion’s goals for the Employment Committee?
Further, she said she will also work to ensure all-Ireland initiatives are progressed. Across the island, there is a growing, positive conversation about Irish unity and constitutional change.
“I am also pleased to be working on the Employment Committee, a key committee for protecting workers’ rights. As a former trade unionist, I have a strong track record fighting for workers’ rights. I will ensure that Irish workers’ interests are front and centre in the committees’ work. This must include standing up for collective bargaining rights and fair wages.”
What initiatives will Funchion support on the FEMM Committee?
She remarked that on the FEMM Committee which oversees the development of women’s rights, she will be a strong voice for gender equality. In the Dáil, she was a committed champion of survivors of the Mother and Baby Homes as they fought for justice. As a TD, she also campaigned for childcare costs to be cut to affordable levels for families. She will continue to work on important issues of gender equality, to ensure that women’s rights are protected and enhanced.
Moreover, This week, she and her colleague Sinn FĂ©in MEP Lynn Boylan, hit the ground running in Strasbourg. During the election campaign, she pledged to work hard, day and night, to stand up for the people of Ireland South and make a real difference on the issues that matter to their daily lives. That is exactly what she am determined to deliver.
