Dublin (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – MEP Seán Kelly plans to address opposition to the EU-Australia trade deal by emphasizing mutual economic benefits, enhancing cooperation, and negotiating solutions that satisfy both EU and Australian concerns.
What Role Will Seán Kelly Play in EU-Australia Trade Negotiations?
An Ireland South MEP Seán Kelly has committed to progress the delayed EU-Australia trade deal and to ensure the EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement is executed effectively. Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly, who is from Kerry, is the new head of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with Australia and New Zealand. He made the remarks following the publication of a special EU-wide survey on perspectives towards international trade.
What Are the Priorities of Irish Citizens Regarding EU Trade Policy?
According to a Survey, 51% of the Irish respondents believe the main priority of EU trade policy should be the outcome of jobs, followed by protecting consumers, businesses, and farmers from unfair trade. Environmental standards, climate change, and inferior consumer prices are also significant problems for those surveyed in Ireland.
How Does Seán Kelly Plan to Overcome Opposition to the Trade Deal?
53% of Irish respondents in the EU-wide survey consider international trade rules necessary to construct a level playing field for countries and businesses. The survey also discovered that 62% of Europeans feel they profit from international trade, citing reasons like more comprehensive consumer choice and more inexpensive products. 74% of Europeans think the EU is more useful in defending trade interests than individual member states acting alone.
In July 2024, it came to light that the MEP for Ireland South, Seán Kelly, is set to play a critical role in any future discussions on a possible EU-Australia trade deal. Kelly has been designated as the chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with Australia and New Zealand (DANZ) and expressed he is “committed” to advancing important trade agreements with these nations that “promise substantial economic benefits”.
“One of my priorities will be to increase the EU-Australia trade deal, ensuring it delivers real benefits for both sides. This agreement promises considerable economic benefits, reinforcing our economic cooperation and enhancing the strong cultural links we share. Talks have stalled, but hopefully, we can make headway,” Kelly said. The proposed deal had met with opposition from both EU farmers and Australian farmers.
