Ibec launches European Parliament elections 2019 campaign

Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, today launch a major European Parliament election campaign at a breakfast to be addressed by former President of the Parliament Pat Cox. At the launch in Ibec Head Office, Dublin, the group will set out key business priorities (see attached pdf with full details) and say that the elections are an opportunity to strengthen Ireland’s influence in the European Parliament, in its political parties and on its policy committees.

Ibec said the EU remains a model of global co-operation, but further progress is required in the areas of digitalisation and global trade. A deepening of the Single Market will open new economic opportunities and drive job creation. In other areas, member states that are best placed to act, including on taxation, labour market and social legislation.

In the key area of trade, the EU should continue to advance ambitious, balanced trade agreements with its partners. This should include a comprehensive and ambitious future trading relationship with the UK post-Brexit, in addition to closer trading and investment partnerships with the US and China. Ibec said the next European Parliament must work to deliver a sustainable economic future for Europe by supporting carbon-reduction goals that are ambitious, achievable, cost-effective and do not leave business or citizens behind.

Commenting, Danny McCoy, Ibec CEO, said: “The success of business will determine the ability of the EU to grow, improve job opportunities and living standards, and generate the resources for public services and infrastructure investment. It is vital that the needs of business are a priority for candidates.

“The 2019 elections are taking places against the back-drop of a wave of populism sweeping across many parts of the EU. It is extremely important, therefore, that the electorate in Ireland takes seriously what is at stake on May 24. The overriding message from Ibec is to turn out and exercise your democratic right to vote.”

In a call to action, Ibec encourages members and citizens to:
· Find out more about the European Parliament and how its decisions impact your business and your jobs.
· Tell the candidates how creating the right conditions for business can improve living standards, generate tax revenues, and lead to new jobs.

· Inform your employees of the benefits that the EU provides for your business.

· Encourage voting