Seán Kelly
Member of the European Parliament · PPE · IE
“Madam President, my colleague Ressler said Europe was a sleeping giant. And this is a sleep that is self-inflicted because of overregulation etc. So now we need to wake up and get rid of the sleeping tablets.”
“A Uachtaráin, beidh mé chomh tapaidh agus is féidir liom. Yesterday, at the first debate on the conclusions of the European Council meeting, a lot of Members – understandably at the time – were critical of the non-attendance of the Irish Presidency.”
“A Uachtaráin, the Commission estimates that rebuilding Gaza will cost USD 71 billion. For decades, the EU has funded schools, hospitals, water networks, community centres in Palestine – many of them now destroyed.”
“A Uachtaráin, tá áthas orm labhairt ar an ábhar tábhachtach seo. Europe's bioeconomy represents one of our greatest untapped economic opportunities – by turning agricultural residues, forestry by-products, marine resources and organic waste into high-value products, we can reduce our dependence on fossil-based materials while creating new…”
“I therefore welcome investments such as Ireland's new National Biorefinery Pilot Plant in County Monaghan, which helps researchers, SMEs and industry from across the country to transform promising ideas into commercially viable products, bridging the gap between laboratory research and market deployment.”
“A Uachtaráin, I think there is nothing more depressing than to see a traditional industry like the automotive industry basically going down the tubes, especially because of unfair competition from China. So that's up to us to ensure that competition is stopped and that we give a fair advantage to our own industries.”
The complete record
Every one of 251 lines we hold for Seán Kelly, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 5 of 6.
“– Nasledujúca schôdza sa uskutoční od 31. marca do 3. apríla 2025 v Štrasburgu. TC "14 - Закриване на заседанието" \f "1"TC "14 - Cierre de la sesión" \f "2"TC "14 - Ukončení zasedání" \f "3"TC "14 - Hævelse af mødet" \f "4"TC "14 - Schluss der Sitzung" \f "5"TC "14 - Istungi lõpp" \f "6"TC "14 - Λήξη της συνεδρίασης" \f "7"TC "14 - Closure of the sitting" \f "8"TC "14 - Levée de la séance" \f "9"TC "14 - Críoch an tsuí" \f "A"TC "14 - Zatvaranje dnevne sjednice" \f "B"TC "14 - Chiusura della seduta" \f "C"TC "14 - Sēdes slēgšana" \f "D"TC "14 - Posėdžio pabaiga" \f "E"TC "14 - Az ülés berekesztése" \f "F"TC "14 - Għeluq tas-seduta" \f "G"TC "14 - Sluiting van de vergadering" \f "H"TC "14 - Zamknięcie posiedzenia" \f "I"TC "14 - Encerramento da sessão" \f "J"TC "14 - Ridicarea ședinței" \f "K"TC "14 - Skončenie rokovania" \f "L"TC "14 - Zaključek seje" \f "M"TC "14 - Istunnon päättäminen" \f "N"TC "14 - Avslutande av sammanträdet" \f "O"Skončenie rokovania 4-0211-0000 (Rokovanie sa skončilo o 15.37 h.) TC "15 - Прекъсване на сесията" \f "1"TC "15 - Interrupción del período de sesiones" \f "2"TC "15 - Přerušení zasedání" \f "3"TC "15 - Afbrydelse af sessionen" \f "4"TC "15 - Unterbrechung der Sitzungsperiode" \f "5"TC "15 - Istungjärgu vaheaeg" \f "6"TC "15 - Διακοπή της συνόδου" \f "7"TC "15 - Adjournment of the session" \f "8"TC "15 - Interruption de la session" \f "9"TC "15 - Atráth an tseisiúin" \f "A"TC "15 - Prekid zasjedanja" \f "B"TC "15 - Interruzione della sessione" \f "C"TC "15 - Sesijas pārtraukšana" \f "D"TC "15 - Sesijos atidėjimas" \f "E"TC "15 - Az ülésszak megszakítása" \f "F"TC "15 - Interruzzjoni tas-sessjoni" \f "G"TC "15 - Onderbreking van de zitting" \f "H"TC "15 - Przerwa w obradach" \f "I"TC "15 - Interrupção da Sessão" \f "J"TC "15 - Întreruperea sesiunii" \f "K"TC "15 - Prerušenie zasadania" \f "L"TC "15 - Prekinitev zasedanja" \f "M"TC "15 - Istuntokauden keskeyttäminen" \f "N"TC "15 - Avbrytande av sessionen" \f "O"Prerušenie zasadania 4-0213-0000 Predsedajúci .”
“TC "13 - График на следващата месечна сесия " \f "1"TC "13 - Calendario del próximo período parcial de sesiones" \f "2"TC "13 - Harmonogram příštího dílčího zasedání" \f "3"TC "13 - Kalender for den næste mødeperiode" \f "4"TC "13 - Zeitplan für die nächste Tagung" \f "5"TC "13 - Järgmise osaistungjärgu ajakava" \f "6"TC "13 - Χρονοδιάγραμμα της επόμενης περιόδου συνόδου" \f "7"TC "13 - Dates of the next part-session" \f "8"TC "13 - Calendrier de la prochaine période de session" \f "9"TC "13 - Dátaí an chéad pháirtseisiúin eile" \f "A"TC "13 - Kalendar sljedeće sjednice" \f "B"TC "13 - Calendario della prossima tornata" \f "C"TC "13 - Nākamās sesijas grafiks" \f "D"TC "13 - Kitos mėnesinės sesijos tvarkaraštis" \f "E"TC "13 - A következő ülés időpontja" \f "F"TC "13 - Kalendarju tas-sessjoni parzjali li jmiss" \f "G"TC "13 - Rooster van de volgende vergaderperiode" \f "H"TC "13 - Kalendarz następnej sesji miesięcznej" \f "I"TC "13 - Calendário do próximo período de sessões" \f "J"TC "13 - Calendarul următoarei perioade de sesiune " \f "K"TC "13 - Harmonogram nasledujúcej plenárnej schôdze" \f "L"TC "13 - Časovni razpored naslednjega delnega zasedanja" \f "M"TC "13 - Seuraavan istuntojakson aikataulu" \f "N"TC "13 - Datum för nästa sammanträdesperiod" \f "O" Harmonogram nasledujúcej plenárnej schôdze 4-0209-0000 Predsedajúci .”
“– Zápisnica z tohto rokovania bude predložená na schválenie na začiatku nasledujúceho rokovania. Pokiaľ nie sú žiadne námietky, uznesenia prijaté na dnešnom rokovaní budú ihneď postúpené osobám a orgánom, ktoré sú v nich uvedené.”
“Mar sin, ba cheart agus ba chóir dúinn tacaíocht a thabhairt do na moltaí seo. 4-0205-0000 Predsedajúci . – Tento bod programu je ukončený. TC "12 - Одобряване на протокола от настоящата сесия и предаване на приетите текстове" \f "1"TC "12 - Aprobación del Acta de la presente sesión y transmisión de los textos aprobados" \f "2"TC "12 - Schválení zápisu z tohoto denního zasedání a předání přijatých textů" \f "3"TC "12 - Godkendelse af protokollen fra dette møde og fremsendelse af vedtagne tekster" \f "4"TC "12 - Genehmigung des Protokolls der laufenden Sitzung und Übermittlung der angenommenen Texte" \f "5"TC "12 - Käesoleva istungi protokolli kinnitamine ja vastuvõetud tekstide edastamine" \f "6"TC "12 - Έγκριση των Συνοπτικών Πρακτικών της τρέχουσας συνεδρίασης και διαβίβαση των Κειμένων που Εγκρίθηκαν" \f "7"TC "12 - Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted" \f "8"TC "12 - Approbation du procès-verbal de la présente séance et transmission des textes adoptés" \f "9"TC "12 - Formheas mhiontuairiscí an tsuí agus na téacsanna a glacadh a chur ar aghaidh" \f "A"TC "12 - Usvajanje zapisnika s današnje dnevne sjednice i prosljeđivanje usvojenih tekstova" \f "B"TC "12 - Approvazione del processo verbale della presente seduta e trasmissione dei testi approvati" \f "C"TC "12 - Šīs sēdes protokola apstiprināšana un pieņemto tekstu nosūtīšana" \f "D"TC "12 - Šio posėdžio protokolo tvirtinimas ir priimtų tekstų perdavimas" \f "E"TC "12 - Az aktuális ülésnap jegyzőkönyvének elfogadása és az elfogadott szövegek továbbítása" \f "F"TC "12 - Approvazzjoni tal-minuti tas-seduta li għaddejja u trażmissjoni tat-testi adottati" \f "G"TC "12 - Goedkeuring van de notulen van deze vergadering en verzending van de aangenomen teksten" \f "H"TC "12 - Zatwierdzenie protokołu bieżącego posiedzenia i przekazanie przyjętych tekstów" \f "I"TC "12 - Aprovação da ata da presente sessão e transmissão dos textos aprovados" \f "J"TC "12 - Aprobarea procesului-verbal al prezentei ședințe și transmiterea textelor adoptate" \f "K"TC "12 - Schválenie zápisnice z dnešného rokovania a zaslanie prijatých textov" \f "L"TC "12 - Sprejetje zapisnika seje in posredovanje sprejetih besedil" \f "M"TC "12 - Tämän istunnon pöytäkirjan hyväksyminen ja hyväksyttyjen tekstien edelleen välittäminen" \f "N"TC "12 - Justering av protokollet från detta sammanträde och översändande av antagna texter" \f "O"Schválenie zápisnice z dnešného rokovania a zaslanie prijatých textov 4-0207-0000 Predsedajúci .”
“A Uachtaráin, vótáil mé ar son na tuarascála seo. It is vital that Europe responds decisively to the challenges facing our industrial sector. The closure of the Audi factory outside Brussels is a stark reminder of the pressures on European manufacturing. To remain competitive, we need an ambitious industrial policy that fosters innovation, cuts unnecessary red tape and creates high-quality jobs. Support for industry and workers is at the core of this resolution. I welcome the Quality Jobs Roadmap and underline the importance of engaging with social partners in the Clean Industrial Deal. Europe's future depends on a strong industrial base. This resolution sends a clear message that we are collectively committed to securing investment, supporting workers and ensuring Europe remains a global leader in industry.”
“Now to conclude, next Monday is our national holiday, Saint Patrick's Day. Isn't that right, Billy? Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh uilig agus caith an tseamróg. 4-0191-0000 Vystúpenia na základe prihlásenia sa o slovo zdvihnutím ruky 4-0192-0000”
“At the school level, we must aim for similarly tangible outcomes, ensuring that students and teachers alike can benefit from a truly European approach to education. To be effective, the European Schools Alliance must focus on delivering measurable outcomes, much like the University Alliance has done with research, innovation and joint degree programmes. This is particularly important from my own country, Ireland, an island nation. Strengthening ties between our schools will help bridge the physical gap, ensuring Irish students and teachers have the same opportunities for collaboration and exchange as their counterparts across the continent. By building these connections, the European Schools Alliance will not only benefit students and teachers, but also contribute to a more unified and competitive Europe.”
“As a former teacher, I am particularly pleased to see the European Schools Alliance being proposed by President von der Leyen. Education is the foundation of our future, and this initiative represents a crucial step in ensuring that young people across Europe have access to high-quality, innovative and inclusive learning opportunities. The success of the European University Alliance has demonstrated the power of cross-border collaboration in higher education. The European Schools Alliance should take inspiration from this model. The University Alliance has proven that overcoming fragmentation and enhancing cooperation leads to real benefits, such as joint degrees in research, collaboration and mobility programmes.”
“But neutrality must be fit for purpose for the 21st century. That means contributing meaningfully to European security and contributing in areas in which we have a considerable degree of experience and expertise – like peacekeeping, for example. It's time to get off the fence and get on with defence. 2-0451-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, a Choimisinéir Kubilius, Russia's invasion of Ukraine has upended European security, bringing conventional warfare back to our doorstep. Hybrid threats like cyber-attacks and disinformation now target our institutions. For too long, Ireland has overlooked security and defence. While we remain committed to military neutrality, it does not equate to vulnerability. Securing our territorial waters and airspace is crucial, and the Government is prioritising the much-needed investment in our defence forces. That is why I support Ireland's increased ambition in terms of urgent investment in primary radar, naval expansion and air defence. These are not luxuries: they are fundamental to our national security. At the same time, Ireland's commitment to neutrality remains steadfast.”
“TC "11 - Одобряване на протокола от настоящата сесия и предаване на приетите текстове" \f "1"TC "11 - Aprobación del Acta de la presente sesión y transmisión de los textos aprobados" \f "2"TC "11 - Schválení zápisu z tohoto denního zasedání a předání přijatých textů" \f "3"TC "11 - Godkendelse af protokollen fra dette møde og fremsendelse af vedtagne tekster" \f "4"TC "11 - Genehmigung des Protokolls der laufenden Sitzung und Übermittlung der angenommenen Texte" \f "5"TC "11 - Käesoleva istungi protokolli kinnitamine ja vastuvõetud tekstide edastamine" \f "6"TC "11 - Έγκριση των Συνοπτικών Πρακτικών της τρέχουσας συνεδρίασης και διαβίβαση των Κειμένων που Εγκρίθηκαν" \f "7"TC "11 - Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted" \f "8"TC "11 - Approbation du procès-verbal de la présente séance et transmission des textes adoptés" \f "9"TC "11 - Formheas mhiontuairiscí an tsuí agus na téacsanna a glacadh a chur ar aghaidh" \f "A"TC "11 - Usvajanje zapisnika s današnje dnevne sjednice i prosljeđivanje usvojenih tekstova" \f "B"TC "11 - Approvazione del processo verbale della presente seduta e trasmissione dei testi approvati" \f "C"TC "11 - Šīs sēdes protokola apstiprināšana un pieņemto tekstu nosūtīšana" \f "D"TC "11 - Šio posėdžio protokolo tvirtinimas ir priimtų tekstų perdavimas" \f "E"TC "11 - Az aktuális ülésnap jegyzőkönyvének elfogadása és az elfogadott szövegek továbbítása" \f "F"TC "11 - Approvazzjoni tal-minuti tas-seduta li għaddejja u trażmissjoni tat-testi adottati" \f "G"TC "11 - Goedkeuring van de notulen van deze vergadering en verzending van de aangenomen teksten" \f "H"TC "11 - Zatwierdzenie protokołu bieżącego posiedzenia i przekazanie przyjętych tekstów" \f "I"TC "11 - Aprovação da ata da presente sessão e transmissão dos textos aprovados" \f "J"TC "11 - Aprobarea procesului-verbal al prezentei ședințe și transmiterea textelor adoptate" \f "K"TC "11 - Schválenie zápisnice z dnešného rokovania a zaslanie prijatých textov" \f "L"TC "11 - Sprejetje zapisnika seje in posredovanje sprejetih besedil" \f "M"TC "11 - Tämän istunnon pöytäkirjan hyväksyminen ja hyväksyttyjen tekstien edelleen välittäminen" \f "N"TC "11 - Justering av protokollet från detta sammanträde och översändande av antagna texter" \f "O"Approval of the minutes of the sitting and forwarding of texts adopted 4-0229-0000”
“I believe this resolution sends a clear message that we will not tolerate further human suffering and that we stand in solidarity with the people of the DRC in their fight for peace and justice. Sin a bhfuil uaimse a Uachtaráin, míle buíochas agus go dté tú slán abhaile.”
“Maith thú a Uachtaráin arís, bhí mé an-sásta, cosúil le mo ghrúpa an EPP, vótáil ar son na tuarascála seo. The ongoing violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is both heartbreaking and unjustifiable. The escalation of conflict, including the occupation of Goma by M23 forces, has led to severe violations of human rights, including the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and recruitment of child soldiers. These actions are not only a violation of international law, but are also catastrophic for innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The resolution calls for concrete actions to bring peace to the region, including imposing sanctions, halting arms transfers and demanding that Rwanda ceases its support for M23.”
“A Uachtaráin, I voted in favour of this resolution to address the concerning political situation in Georgia, where democratic backsliding and increasing repression have undermined the country's European aspirations. The ruling Georgian Dream party, following a rigged election in October 2024, has consistently violated fundamental rights, including by repressing peaceful protests, suppressing media and targeting political opponents. Georgia's path toward European integration must be preserved and we must stand firm with its people in their pursuit of a democratic and prosperous future. The EU must act decisively to ensure Georgia's Government respects democratic principles, the rule of law and human rights. This resolution is a clear message of solidarity with the people of Georgia and their rightful aspirations for European future.”
“We cannot afford to be over-reliant on external providers, particularly in such an uncertain geopolitical climate. We need a coordinated EU approach to ensure the security of our undersea cables and to invest in the resilience of our satellite infrastructure. I welcome the Commission's commitment to investing EUR 865 million to improve digital connectivity, including quantum communication networks and undersea cables. But as we implement the Commission's work plan for 2025, we must prioritise the protection of these strategic assets. Bímis ar an airdeall, níl aon am le cailliúint, go raibh maith agat a Uachtaráin. 4-0148-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, a Choimisnéir agus a chairde, the security and resilience of our digital networks are more vital now than ever, and the European Union's ability to reduce these dependencies is under close scrutiny. I have raised the issue of Ireland's vital role in global communication infrastructure before. Ireland's waters serve as the gateway for over 75 % of the northern hemispheres undersea cables, making us a strategic hub for transatlantic data traffic. This makes us uniquely vulnerable to disruptions in this infrastructure. We cannot underestimate the importance of safeguarding these undersea cables, which are essential not just for Ireland's connectivity, but for the economic stability and security of the entire EU. The protection of our communication infrastructure is not just a national issue; it is a European one.”
“So under no circumstances is our regulatory freedom affected, nor will it be. So let's not use this argument any more. To conclude, Mr President, honourable Members, I would like to thank you for this debate, and I'm ready to continue the discussion with you, with the farmers and with all stakeholders. At the same time, I believe that we would advance our debate and do better service to our citizens, to our farmers if we respect true facts, if we speak about real figures, and if we stay true to what was really agreed and not repeat in every debate the things which are simply not true. 4-0120-0000”
“Mr Andriukaitis was working on that for five years and he was absolutely crystal clear on that. The problem Ms Sbai was referring to was spotted and immediately resolved. This type of beef has never entered the EU market and never will. We do inspections regularly and we also control at the import. On the so-called non‑violation complaint instrument – which I explained many times, but I'm happy to do again – it's not new. It's fully compatible on the WTO framework. And this instrument is only forward‑looking and addresses effects that could not be foreseeable at the time of the conclusion. So it doesn't concern the CBAM. It doesn't concern any of the any of the laws, any of the acquis which are valid right now, which already entered into force. And I'm sure that Ms Bricmont knows about it.”
“It was done by the Independent Economic and Sustainability Impact Assessment on Ireland and the Mercosur agreement. This independent study forecast an increase in Ireland's exports to Mercosur by 17 % and an increase of imports of 12 %. It will increase manufacturing export of Ireland by 1.4 billion and agri‑food exports by 10 to 20 million. We will be very happy from the Commission's side to have this discussion with every single Member State, because we have the figures, we have a convincing argument and we are open for this open, frank debate which would truly be based on the facts. I would also kindly ask you not to spread information which is simply not true. And I totally agree with Ms Pereira who was calling for this. No import of hormone beef. No chlorinated chicken will ever be imported to the European Union.”
“And I want to be very clear that the food products in the European Union being domestically produced or imported must comply with the EU sanitary and phytosanitary rules, including the EU's strict policies on GMOs, and the Commission conducts regular audits in third countries and works closely with the Member States' authorities that perform official controls and enforcement activities on imported food to ensure that non-compliant products cannot enter the EU market. The Member States, of course, are looking in great detail into this agreement and are also carrying out their own audits and their own studies. And there were quite a few honourable Members from Ireland who intervened in this debate, and therefore I think that they should also look at the study which was commissioned by the Irish Government.”
“Mr Cowen and Mr Kelly have been asking and highlighting the importance of strategic discussion on agriculture, and the Commission is absolutely prepared for this. Commissioner Hansen is working on the new strategic vision on agriculture, and I can tell you that we do our utmost to look into all possible ways how to lower reporting obligations for our farmers, how to cut the red tape for our farmers, so the farmer whom one of the honourable Members was referring to as 'Patrick' would have an easier life. But I'm also convinced that this debate we have right now, for the benefit of Patrick and all other farmers, should be based on true facts and figures.”
“EUR 70 billion! Can you imagine how our farmers would do without these export opportunities? Do you believe that we would be able to be so strong in exports if the large network of our FTAs would not open these new markets for all of them, big farmers, small farmers, our agri‑food sector? Into Mercosur itself, our farmers are already now exporting more than EUR 3.2 billion of products, and they managed to do it with import duties which are up to 35 % more than they should be and without any protection for our GIs. And this agreement is going to eliminate these import duties. It's going to protect our GIs, so there will be no imitation of our famous cheeses, our wines and spirits. And I believe that this would greatly improve export opportunities for our farmers.”
“We also overlooked the important signal we are sending out in this difficult time where the trade barriers are being erected again – and we discussed it on Tuesday – and also in the time where we are losing our privileged relationship with countries so close to us historically, culturally, economically, like the countries of Mercosur, to China. Unfortunately, we didn't mention, at all, the strategic importance of the supply of critical raw materials and opportunities these deals open for our businesses and the need to diversify our economic relations. The debate almost completely focused on agriculture, so let's look at this again. As you know, the EU is an agri‑food export superpower. Last year, our farmers exported products of the value of EUR 228 billion, and our farmers and our agri‑food exports have a trade surplus of EUR 70 billion.”
“And I will always be here when you invite me, because I respect this House, I respect democratic debate and, despite all the charged debate we had here today, I am proud of this agreement. And I believe that, through discussion, through explaining, through presenting facts and figures, we can convince the majority, most of you, that we indeed are doing the right job. In this debate, we unfortunately didn't cover the fact that this agreement is actually the biggest free trade agreement the EU ever concluded. Just for your information, this FTA is four times bigger than our free trade agreement with Japan.”
“As some of you know, I consulted widely with farmers, with small farmers, family farmers, organic farmers and also big farmers as well. And two weeks ago, I was with many of you, together with the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Hansen, in the discussion on this precise issue in the Agriculture Committee of this House. I do all this because I have the utmost respect for our farmers, and I have the utmost respect for the debate we have in this House. And I know how crucial a role our farmers are playing in the area of our food security and our food sovereignty and, of course, for the welfare of our society. Honourable Members, I was surprised that Ms Aubry asked me how did I dare to come here to defend this agreement? I came because you invited me.”
“And I want to thank many of you for highlighting that, in this geopolitical era, the free trade agreement with Mercosur, as Mr Lange has underlined, will greatly contribute to our social welfare state, it will create new jobs and open new opportunities for all sectors of our economy, including for our farmers and for our agri‑food sectors. Moreover, it's also good for the environment and sustainability. Let me underline that, in all aspects, we are much better off with the agreement than without it. This agreement binds the Mercosur countries to strong commitments on the fight against deforestation, and it gives us an important platform for cooperation on our climate ambition. On top of this, the overall benefit of this agreement is also good for our farmers and agricultural community.”
“So the Commission has a job to do to convince them otherwise, give them proper compensation, if that is needed, and also look at a package that might include other issues that they are concerned about, especially the reform of the CAP, etcetera. Commissioner Šefčovič, you did a great job in relation to Brexit. Now is the chance for you to step up here. I am very confident you will! 4-0118-0000 (Fin de las intervenciones con arreglo al procedimiento de solicitud incidental de uso de la palabra («catch the eye»)) 4-0119-0000 Maroš Šefčovič, Member of the Commission. – Mr President, honourable Members of the European Parliament, I was privileged to attend three very politically charged, very politically dynamic debates this week.”
“A Uachtaráin, míle buíochas as ucht an t-urlár a thabhairt dúinn uilig. Mar a dúirt tú, tá an díospóireacht seo an-tábhachtach. There are those who are against Mercosur, but they are against everything. But there are also many speakers here this morning who are pro-trade but say they cannot support Mercosur in its current form. That would reflect the position of the new Irish Government – made up of a coalition of Renew and EPP – and I think it needs to be addressed very strongly by the Commission. There are issues like deforestation, sustainability, production standards – especially in Brazil – and then the effect, especially on beef farmers, who feel that they will be decimated if Mercosur goes ahead.”
“And finally, in relation to the WHO, one of the points President Trump made was that there was a huge disparity in what the US was contributing, both voluntary and assessed, as opposed to China. And I think he is right, and I think we should use this opportunity to put a focus on China to fill the void until the WHO have the United States back again. 3-0431-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, Commissioner, while it's regrettable that President Trump would withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, it's not surprising. Indeed, he did so the last time. But there are two points I would like to make. Number one: it should encourage us to redouble our efforts; to reach our targets and not reduce them, as some say we should do, and also encourage partners around the world to do the same. The second point I want to make is: I was at COP around the last time when the US withdrew, and I remember John Kerry made the point then that while Trump would withdraw, an awful lot of the 50 states in the United States were already on a trajectory to meeting their commitments and that would not change. I wonder, would the Commission have the same view of that at this particular time?”
“And for that reason, we must stand by them and the European Regional Facility for the Eastern Countries must be a priority for us. 3-0341-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, even though I come from Ireland, far away from the borders of these three countries, I am very conscious of the suffering of the people on those borders. And I admire their solidarity and resilience. Solidarity, first of all, with Ukraine, taking refugees and supplying Ukraine with energy when Russia are bombing their infrastructure. Also resilience in resisting the horrible practice of weaponising refugees by Belarus and Russia and sabotage of undersea pipelines and cables. Also, particularly, last weekend, three small countries Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, cutting themselves off forevermore on reliance on Russia in terms of their energy. But I hadn't thought of the suffering of businesses. No investment, no tourism.”
“We have got to industrialise Europe: start-ups, scale-ups and 'stay-ups' – start, scale and stay in Europe. That's going to be vital, and then we will be judged on that in five years' time. The final point is we cannot change the targets in relation to climate change. We must do it in a just competitive, transitional way. 3-0103-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, a Choimisinéir Šefčovič, I think it is very easy to criticise the Commission and some people do it and they get elected as a result. But as a Parliament, we have an obligation to work with the Commission to deliver for the people of Europe, and there are three areas I just want to highlight. One: simplification. It has to happen, but a lot of the simplification is not the regulations we are passing here in Europe. It is the bureaucracy that is added at Member State level, and that has to be tackled at Member State level and not like Viktor Orbán, blaming Europe for everything. So it's not one in, one out – it's one in, twenty-seven out – and then we might make progress. Secondly, in relation to ending our dependency on foreign third countries, especially Russia and China. That is a key aspect.”
“Finally, I want to say it's fantastic that we now have InvestAI in the European Union – EUR 200 billion to give us self-sufficiency and develop our own. So well done to Ursula von der Leyen and the Commission. 2-0474-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, I think we've learned some very harsh lessons in recent times – overdependency on third countries for vital supplies. Russia, in the case of energy, which thankfully we have dealt with quite effectively, and now, unfortunately, the US, our traditional friend and ally in relation to AI chips. But I think because they're our traditional friend and ally Commissioner Virkkunen is absolutely right – we must use all diplomatic means to bring them to reality, number one with their best customer in relation to AI, and number two, there is a grave danger that affected countries could turn to China, thus strengthening China's position in AI and undermining US goals. Anybody with a head can see that does not make sense.”
“So I think the Commission has to say to the Serbian State, 'We are going to pause negotiations in relation to your accession until we are satisfied that the standards have been reached,' because one Putin puppet, Viktor Orbán, is enough in Europe. 2-0432-0000”
“A Uachtaráin, I am totally in favour of enlargement of the European Union. In fact, it is far too long since Croatia joined over 11 years ago. But countries must come up to standard if they want to join the European Union, and that is questionable in relation to Serbia. Particularly in relation to the protests which students and others are taking part in now for some time, since the collapse of Novi Sad railway station undertaken by a Chinese state consortium. So, that being the case, I think the Commissioner is right. Not only must they make changes in terms of law, but they must make changes particularly in relation to action, and violence against protesters who are entitled to freedom of assembly is not part of what we stand for.”
“So let us collaborate closely with our global partners to establish clear and enforceable global standards. 4-0114-0000 Catch-the-eye procedure 4-0115-0000”
“We hear from the crypto industry that the US is now becoming a more attractive jurisdiction than the EU, with its regulatory approach expected to be looser than ours. On this I make two points. One: here in Europe we must approach this industry with the same competitiveness lens we apply to all sectors. It is vital to monitor the impact of our regulations and remain adaptable enough to amend them if needed, ensuring we maintain the right balance. Two: those in the crypto industry eyeing Trump's America with enthusiasm might reflect on the Trump coin debacle before this week's inauguration. Be careful what you wish for! Ultimately, the cross-border and decentralised nature of cryptocurrencies demands international cooperation to address clear regulatory gaps, as was stated by the Commissioner and my colleague Markus Ferber.”
“Madam President, digital and cryptocurrencies present an important opportunity for Europe, provided we establish the necessary safeguards. We must strike the right balance between regulating to enhance consumer protection and promote financial stability, while ensuring we do not hinder innovation or impede the financial inclusion that cryptocurrencies can offer. The MiCA Regulation demonstrates Europe's willingness to lead in establishing best-in-class regulatory frameworks. Recent events, such as the collapse of the FTX in November 2022, have shown why proper standards are essential to protect our citizens from irresponsible, and even fraudulent, market behaviour. However, the new Trump administration's pro-crypto stance provides an opportunity for us to reflect.”
“Pasaulinių standartų poreikis (diskusijos)" \f "E"TC "4 - Kriptovaluták - globális standardok szükségessége (vita)" \f "F"TC "4 - Kriptovaluti - il-ħtieġa ta’ standards globali (dibattitu)" \f "G"TC "4 - Cryptovaluta: behoefte aan mondiale normen (debat)" \f "H"TC "4 - Kryptowaluty - potrzeba światowych standardów (debata)" \f "I"TC "4 - Criptomoedas – Necessidade de criação de normas a nível global (debate)" \f "J"TC "4 - Criptomonedele - necesitatea unor standarde mondiale (dezbatere)" \f "K"TC "4 - Kryptomeny – potreba globálnych noriem (rozprava)" \f "L"TC "4 - Kriptovalute – potrebni so svetovni standardi (razprava)" \f "M"TC "4 - Kryptovaluutat ja globaalien normien tarve (keskustelu)" \f "N"TC "4 - Kryptovalutor – behovet av globala standarder (debatt)" \f "O"Cryptocurrencies - need for global standards (debate) 4-0071-0000”
“4-0065-0000 (La séance est suspendue quelques instants) 4-0067-0000 IN THE CHAIR: CHRISTEL SCHALDEMOSE Vice-President TC "3 - Възобновяване на заседанието" \f "1"TC "3 - Reanudación de la sesión" \f "2"TC "3 - Pokračování denního zasedání" \f "3"TC "3 - Genoptagelse af mødet" \f "4"TC "3 - Wiederaufnahme der Sitzung" \f "5"TC "3 - Istungi jätkamine" \f "6"TC "3 - Επανάληψη της συνεδρίασης" \f "7"TC "3 - Resumption of the sitting" \f "8"TC "3 - Reprise de la séance" \f "9"TC "3 - Athchromadh ar an suí" \f "A"TC "3 - Nastavak zasjedanja" \f "B"TC "3 - Ripresa della seduta" \f "C"TC "3 - Sēdes atsākšana" \f "D"TC "3 - Posėdžio pratęsimas" \f "E"TC "3 - Az ülés folytatása" \f "F"TC "3 - Tkomplija tas-seduta" \f "G"TC "3 - Hervatting van de vergadering" \f "H"TC "3 - Wznowienie posiedzenia" \f "I"TC "3 - Reinício da sessão" \f "J"TC "3 - Reluarea şedinţei" \f "K"TC "3 - Pokračovanie prerušeného rokovania" \f "L"TC "3 - Nadaljevanje seje" \f "M"TC "3 - Istunnon jatkaminen" \f "N"TC "3 - Återupptagande av sammanträdet" \f "O"Resumption of the sitting 4-0069-0000 (The sitting resumed at 10:29) TC "4 - Криптовалути – необходимост от световни стандарти (разискване)" \f "1"TC "4 - Criptomonedas: necesidad de normas a escala mundial (debate)" \f "2"TC "4 - Kryptoměny – potřeba celosvětových norem (rozprava)" \f "3"TC "4 - Kryptovalutaer – behov for globale standarder (forhandling)" \f "4"TC "4 - Kryptowährungen – Notwendigkeit weltweiter Standards (Aussprache)" \f "5"TC "4 - Krüptovaluutad – vajadus ülemaailmsete standardite järele (arutelu)" \f "6"TC "4 - Κρυπτονομίσματα - ανάγκη για παγκόσμια πρότυπα (συζήτηση)" \f "7"TC "4 - Cryptocurrencies - need for global standards (debate)" \f "8"TC "4 - Cryptomonnaies - Le besoin de normes mondiales (débat)" \f "9"TC "4 - Criptea-airgeadraí - An gá atá le caighdeáin dhomhanda (díospóireacht)" \f "A"TC "4 - Kriptovalute - potreba za globalnim standardima (rasprava)" \f "B"TC "4 - Necessità di standard globali in materia di criptovalute (discussione)" \f "C"TC "4 - Kriptovalūtas — nepieciešamība pēc globāliem standartiem (debates)" \f "D"TC "4 - Kriptovaliutos.”
“Por último, necesitamos que la Comisión presente una estrategia de desertificación que aborde este fenómeno desde diferentes ámbitos y proporcione una visión conjunta que nos permita alcanzar la meta de neutralidad de la degradación de la tierra en 2030. La desertificación es una amenaza ambiental y un desafío social, económico y de seguridad alimentaria. No podemos permitirnos la inacción.”
“Pese a los avances discutidos en la CP16 de Riad, seguimos sin respuestas claras y concretas. En la Unión, necesitamos una evaluación del riesgo de desertificación —como pidió el Tribunal de Cuentas en su Informe Especial sobre desertificación de 2018—, así como mayor ambición en la negociación de la Ley de vigilancia del suelo para neutralizar los numerosos intentos del PPE y de la derecha para debilitarla. Asimismo, la Unión debería declararse como parte en riesgo de desertificación en el marco de la Convención de Lucha contra la Desertificación de las Naciones Unidas, como pidió el Parlamento en su informe sobre la Estrategia sobre Biodiversidad de junio de 2021.”
“Many of you have underlined the importance of water and the need to make progress on strengthening our water resilience, so I also want to say – as I said earlier, and I know you know – that the Commission has made it a priority to present a new strategy on this. I know Parliament is already making progress on its reports on this. I thank you today for your input, and I look forward to close dialogue with you, with your rapporteur, Thomas Bajada, and all of you on this important topic, and of course, on continuing fighting desertification. 4-0064-0000 Le Président. – Le débat est clos. Déclarations écrites (article 178) 4-0064-5000 Javi López (S&D), por escrito. – El suelo es un recurso no renovable y crítico para nuestra supervivencia. En los últimos 25 años, las sequías aumentaron casi un 30 % y afectaron a 1 800 millones de personas.”
“And I just want to repeat one thing that I said in my first remark: the Commission is responding to the recommendation of the European Court of Auditors by developing a methodology to assess land degradation and desertification for the EU. Although we didn't leave Riyadh with all our desired outcomes, we should still acknowledge and build on the important progress that was made. So now we need to keep up the momentum. We need to accelerate implementation at national and international levels, and continue our work to agree on the outstanding COP16 decisions, especially on droughts.”
“Bímis ag dul ar aghaidh de réir a chéile, mar de réir a chéile a dhéantar na caisleáin. 4-0062-0000 (Fin des interventions à la demande) 4-0063-0000 Jessika Roswall, Member of the Commission. – Mr President, honourable Members, your interventions show how important it is for the EU to continue tackling the interconnected challenges of droughts, land use, climate change, biodiversity loss and water scarcity together for our economy, our security and our livelihoods. They show that we are not ignoring the difficulties we face in the current geopolitical climate. And as many of you have also mentioned, we are all affected. I just also want to say – and this is to César Luena – that the Commission is not ignoring this.”
“(Níor phioc an micreafón suas tús na hóráide) ... labhairt ar an ábhar tábhachtach seo, gaineamhlú an domhain. And depending on who you're listening to, between 20 % and 40 % of land is threatened with desertification, particularly in places like the Sahel, Gobi Desert, South America. I think it's good that the European Union are now emphasising that deforestation, in particular, has to end in any free trade deals we'll be doing. Within Europe, we will be shortly discussing the next CAP and, obviously, protection of the soil, nature restoration are going to be key in that. And I would make one suggestion: give every farmer in Europe a minimum of 50 trees native to their own area to set on their farm. This would help to restore nature, protect the soils and be a small step to end desertification.”
“Loot boxes that mimic gambling, influencers pushing vaping and targeted ads for unhealthy products are just the tip of the iceberg. Recent studies show that nearly 60 % of children aged 8 to 12 have encountered harmful content online. Behind these numbers are real children whose well-being and development are being undermined by the greed of platforms that prioritise profit over protection. Platforms must be held accountable for their algorithms, their recommendation systems and their content moderation, or lack thereof. Protecting democracy and protecting minors must go hand-in-hand. 2-0144-0000”