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Mooney going back to Roscommon roots in last week of campaign trail
MEP Candidate for the North West Constituency, Paschal Mooney (FF) will be returning to his Roscommon roots during this last week of the European Campaign trail.
Mr Mooney will be returning to Kilteevan, outside Roscommon, where his Grandfather, Andrew Mooney, was born and reared.
“I will be returning to my roots in Kilteevan during the last week of the campaign trail,” said Mr Mooney.
“My grandfather, Andrew Mooney, was born and reared there before he married and settled in Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim.
“It will be an emotional experience returning to the place where, in many respects, it all began.
“My grandfather was the first in our family to contribute to public life. When he left Roscommon, he served on Leitrim County Council from 1920 – 1943.
“His son, my father, Joseph Mary Mooney, went on to become a member of the Seanad (1961-65) and Leitrim County Council and my late mother, Eva Mooney, also served as a member of Leitrim County Council (1988-91).
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Mooney goes back to Mayo roots in last week of campaign
MEP Candidate for the North West Constituency, Paschal Mooney (FF) returned to his roots in Co. Mayo during this last week of his European Campaign trail.
While campaigning in Kilmovee, Mr Mooney spoke on the very spot where his late mother, Eva Mooney, held her first job at the Kilmovee post office during the war years.
“I was speaking in Duffys in Kilmovee at the weekend and the local candidate, John Caufield, pointed out to me that it used to be the post office.
“I wasn’t aware that it was the same place where my late mother originally worked. The post office was her first employment during the war years.
“It was an emotional moment when I realised I was speaking at the same spot where my mother had once worked.
“I also met a few people who remembered her. Kilmovee was such an integral part of my mother’s life when she was growing up and it was very moving to be back there again,” he said.
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Ireland’s Identity must be protected in Europe - Paschal Mooney
“In an increasingly globalised world, Ireland’s identity and unique contribution to the history of Europe must be protected. The EU is founded on the Christian principles of equality, protection of human rights and as defender of the disadvantaged and the marginalised. Ireland’s role in the development of European civilisation, going back to the dark ages, is reflected in the number of Irish Saints who are identified in cities all over Europe. Our European partners are aware of the unique contribution Ireland brings to the heart of the EU. I share Archbishop Martin’s philosophy that we should actively engage within the European Union rather than standing on the sidelines.”
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EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System is vital
An EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System is vital to help prevent child abductions across all borders, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney has called for closer co-operation between all EU Countries and believes a European ‘Amber Alert’ system is the only way forward.
“The abduction of Madeleine McCann brought the issue of child abduction back into the international spotlight,” said Mr Mooney.
“This horrific event happened two years ago this month (May) and has re-ignited the need for an EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System.
“Thousands of parents have found themselves in the same distressing situation as the McCanns, in Ireland and across the EU, and we need to push forward to ensure a system is put in place sooner rather than later.
“A Child Alert system is in the pipeline and received a major funding boost last month (April).
“However this is just the first step towards a European Amber Alert, which would trigger the immediate forwarding of information about the missing child to the news media, border authorities, customs and law enforcement agencies.
“Information about a possible abductor would also be provided immediately and, most importantly, a central telephone number must be provided for witnesses to call.
“This style of early warning system has led to the safe return of hundreds of children in the US as the alarm is triggered across state lines.
“A similar network across the EU could have helped to raise awareness faster about Madeleine's abduction from the McCanns' holiday villa.
“We need a European Amber Alert system to tackle the problem of child abduction,” he said.
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Children must be protected from Internet Exploitation – Paschal Mooney
The EU has a strong role to play to combat cyber bullying and the horrific practice of grooming children online, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney believes that tougher measures are needed to protect children from the dangers of internet exploitation.
“We need closer co-operation between police authorities, financial operators, internet providers and private companies such as Visa, Mastercard, Ebay, Paypal and Microsoft, to stop these horrific and illegal practices,” said Mr Mooney.
“The European Commission currently provides funding to international organisations, such as the European Financial Coalition against Child Sex Abuse on the Internet, for this purpose.
“It is only through this kind of co-operation that we can protect and safeguard our children when they are using the internet.
“As a member of the Council of Europe, I was involved in a major international conference regarding the governance of the internet and the protection of children from exploitation and bullying on the web.
“The threat is all too real and we need tougher action across all borders to combat child exploitation on the internet,” he said.
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Promote Clare’s strong music culture on world stage – Paschal Mooney
Clare’s strong traditional music heritage should be promoted on the world stage to bring back international tourists to the region.
That’s according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF) who believes the strength of the music brand alone should draw tourists from around the world if marketed correctly.
“The landscape and scenery of Co. Clare is remarkable and amongst the best in the world,” said Mr Mooney.
“This combined with Clare’s strong and unique musical heritage is what singles out the region from other areas across Ireland.
“It is the home of traditional music and we need to tap into this even further in order to bring international tourists back to the region to regenerate the local economy.
“As a broadcaster, I have been able to promote the great music of the Tulla, Kilfenora and Aughrim Slopes Ceili Band among many others.
“The Joe Mooney Summer School, named after my late father, was modelled on the famous Willie Clancy Summer School and many Clare musicians, including Noel Hill, travel to Drumshanbo each year to share their knowledge of traditional music.
“This is just one example of how Clare acts as a model for traditional music and culture.
“The EU has a firm role to play in providing vital funding necessary for tourism infrastructure.
“This should be centred around the traditional music industry,” he said.
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News that Aer Lingus is considering increasing its Shannon to London service is a vote of confidence in the future of Shannon Airport, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
It is understood that Aer Lingus are considering obtaining an extra slot at Heathrow in a bid to increase the London to Shannon service.
“This is a vote of confidence in the future of Shannon Airport,” said Mr Mooney.
“The fact they are considering increasing the London to Shannon route is a massive psychological boost for the region and for the entire West of Ireland.
“As Chairman of Failte Ireland North West, I fully understand how important tourism is for the local economy.
“If the move to increase the service gets the go ahead, it will provide a major economic boost to the region and will stimulate job creation,” he said.
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EU wide reform of sheep farming sector vital for Irish farmers – Paschal Mooney
The future of the sheep farming sector in Ireland is under threat without further EU assistance and European wide reform, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney believes the entire industry must be reformed across the EU to give Irish sheep farmers a fighting chance at survival.
“We need greater EU assistance to market Irish lamb products across Europe,” said Mr Mooney.
“We also need to reform the labelling regime that governs the sheep sector in Europe.
“Consumers are entitled to be fully aware of the place of origin of the lamb products they purchase and consume.
“The sheep farming sector across Europe needs financial support if it is to remain viable and competitive into the future,” he said.
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Mooney calls on Opponents to take down Galway City posters
MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF) has called on all European candidates to take down their posters in Galway City.
Mr Mooney has rowed in behind members of the local organisation who have committed to keeping the City free of posters for the Volvo Ocean Race.
“As Chairman of Failte Ireland North West, I fully understand the importance of this event for Galway, as the city is promoted around the world.
“Having canvassed in Galway this week, I have witnessed first-hand as tourists try to take photos without election posters in the background – and it is impossible.
“I have committed to keeping my posters out of the City Centre out of respect to local residents and the local Volvo Ocean Race committee.
“I am still able to get my message across on the outskirts of the City and I am calling on all other European candidates to do the same.
“The festival lasts for another week and there is still time to make an impact in the best interests of Galway City.
“Many people will flock to the City for the exciting in shore racing as well as other events and it would be beneficial to minimise the amount of visual pollution caused by election posters,” he said.
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Galway Trocaire debate lively and challenging - Mooney
Ireland’s position on the arms industry, fair trade and overseas development were just some of the questions which were raised in Galway City at the Trocaire EU Election Public Debate held in the Harbour Hotel.
MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF) pledged his support to the organisation after attending the event as a panel member.
“There was a large attendance in Galway and it was an excellent discussion,” said Mr Mooney.
“I am a long standing member of Amnesty International and was the first Irishman to be elected Chair of the Council of Europe Human Rights Committee.
“I have a tremendous respect for the local volunteers and other non-government organisations who work hard to provide a voice for those less fortunate.
“I have also served on the panel to select the Human Rights Defenders and am fully aware of the challenges faced by Trocaire and Dochas internationally.
“I will support their aims if elected to the European Parliament,” he said.
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EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System is vital – Paschal Mooney
An EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System is vital to help prevent child abductions across all borders, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney has called for closer co-operation between all EU Countries and believes a European ‘Amber Alert’ system is the only way forward.
“The abduction of Madeleine McCann brought the issue of child abduction back into the international spotlight,” said Mr Mooney.
“This horrific event happened two years ago this month and has re-ignited the need for an EU-Wide Missing Child Alert System.
“Thousands of parents have found themselves in the same distressing situation as the McCanns, in Ireland and across the EU, and we need to push forward to ensure a system is put in place sooner rather than later.
“A Child Alert system is in the pipeline and received a major funding boost last month from the EU Commission.
“However this is just the first step towards a European Amber Alert, which would trigger the immediate forwarding of information about the missing child to the news media, border authorities, customs and law enforcement agencies.
“Information about a possible abductor would also be provided immediately and, most importantly, a central telephone number must be provided for witnesses to call.
“This style of early warning system has led to the safe return of hundreds of children in the US as the alarm is triggered across state lines.
“A similar network across the EU could have helped to raise awareness faster about Madeleine's abduction from the McCanns' holiday villa.
“We need a European Amber Alert system to tackle the problem of child abduction,” he said.
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Vacant commercial units should be utilised for local businesses – Paschal Mooney
Vacant commercial units, which are currently lying idle, should be used for the benefit of local businesses, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney believes that EU funding should be set aside to allow local businesses and start-ups to use empty units.
“County Enterprise and Development Boards have the knowledge and the expertise to provide a link between local businesses and commercial units which are currently lying idle,” said Mr Mooney.
“EU funding could be set aside to ensure that vacant units could be provided at low rent for the benefit of local SME’s and budding entrepreneurs.
“This kind of initiative would kick start local enterprise and ensure that high quality premises are utilised across the country.
“Incubator units for businesses are a fantastic way to help at a time when it is needed most.
“They operate on a low rent basis and provide business mentoring and advice.
“This kind of model could be extended to give local businesses and start ups the advantage of having a new premises and will ensure that vacant units are not left idle,” he said.
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Libertas blue card proposal is like tagging cattle – Paschal Mooney
A proposal by Libertas to introduce a blue card system for EU citizens is reminiscent of the tagging of cattle, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney has hit out at what he describes as the “bizarre proposals” by Libertas and has said the policy is similar to the system used to track the movements of cattle.
“Libertas are proposing to literally tag people under this blue card scheme.
“EU citizens would have to apply for a 'blue card' to allow them to work in other EU countries for a maximum of 2 years.
“The system is reminiscent of the blue tag used to track cattle.
“They want to track people’s movements in the same way that cattle are tagged for traceability.
“If Mr Ganleys proposals go through, it will mean that all Irish people will be required to seek written permission and be tagged, before being allowed to enter Northern Ireland or Britain.
“This effectively means that someone from Newry wanting to work in Dundalk would have to apply for a blue card and vice versa– adding more bureaucracy and regulation which they say they want to reduce.
“The EU market of 500 million people is vital to Ireland’s economic survival.
“ Irish companies must be able to sell their goods and services into the EU and we need to be able to travel freely in order to do this.
“In fact, the Single European Act allows for the free movement of people, goods and services.
“This is a completely bizarre proposal and a new low for Libertas,” he said.
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EU can help tackle scourge of heroin abuse in Longford - Mooney
The scourge of heroin in Longford cannot be ignored, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
The effect of the drug on the local community was made very clear on Mr Mooney’s recent visit to Longford – where he paid tribute to the work carried out by St Martha’s Hostel and Bethany House in the town.
Mr Joe Finnegan, the Manager of St Martha’s Hostel, informed the MEP Candidate that there has been an increase in the number of heroin addicts looking for emergency accommodation at the facility.
This has put increasing pressure on the service they provide as, more often than not, there is no place for addicts to go.
“I discovered there is an increase in the number of heroin addicts who are in need of emergency accommodation,” said Mr Mooney.
“It is a scourge and Mr Finnegan informed me that there is always a waiting list for rehabilitation.
“This means that many addicts have to detox or go ‘cold turkey’ at St Martha’s.
“This puts enormous pressure on the staff at the facility and there is only enough money for one staff member to be on duty at any given time,” he said.
Mr Mooney believes the EU has a significant role to play in fighting the heroin epidemic.
“The EU is implementing a plan to ensure the best treatment programmes are put in place to re-habilitate users of illegal drugs across Europe,” said Mr Mooney.
“90% of all heroin sold in Ireland comes directly from Afghanistan and must be stopped.
“We all sadly know the damage that is being done to those who use illegal drugs aswell as the damage that is caused to families and friends of drug users and to local communities,” he said.
Mr Mooney also paid tribute to the work carried out by the staff at Bethany House, which is the only women’s refuge in the Midlands to cater for women and children, who are either homeless or have been subjected to domestic violence.
The house has been designed to bring comfort to those who find themselves in a vulnerable situation and is divided into apartments and family rooms which can sleep 23 in total.
Their aim is to help these women get back on their feet by finding permanent accommodation for them.
Mr Mooney listened to the concerns of both organisations, which are run by the Saint Vincent de Paul, and has pledged to fight for the future of both facilities.
If elected he will target EU agencies for funding specifically for facilities like this, he concluded.
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International media spotlight shines on Leitrim during Mooney campaign trail
The International media spotlight has been shining on Carrick-on-Shannon, Drumshanbo and surrounds thanks to Leitrim’s own Paschal Mooney.
The Fianna Fail MEP Candidate for the North West was interviewed recently by German television channel ‘zdf’ as they followed Mr Mooney on the campaign trail in the run up to June 5.
Mr Mooney asked the company to film the interview in his home constituency in order to show the home County in the best light and to draw international attention to Co. Leitrim.
“I am very conscious of the fact that I am not only representing myself and the party on this campaign trail – but also my home County,” said Mr Mooney who is currently Chairman of Failte Ireland North West.
“Tourism is vital for Leitrim and, whether I win or lose on June 5, I hope I have promoted this County on the international stage in the best light possible.
“As a member of the Council of Europe Parliament until early last year, I prepared several important reports which were the focus of media attention in mainland Europe.
“As a result, the international media are interested in my bid for election to the European Parliament.
“They acknowledge the important work I have done as the first Irishman elected by European MP’s to the prestigious Chair of the Council of Europe Human Rights Committee - as well as enjoying a high profile in Brussels and Strasbourg during my term of office.
“The European Union has changed over the past decade. My experience is recent and I know I can make a difference for our County and our community.
“I want to use my experience and background as a European politician to work with our partners in Europe for the benefit of the North West Constituency - as I have done locally and regionally as a County Councillor and Senator,” he said.
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Opposition scaremongering over Western Rail Corridor -Paschal Mooney
European election candidate in the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF) has hit out over attempts to mislead and confuse people regarding the Government's commitment to the Western Rail Corridor.
The entire Western Rail Corridor is still firmly on track, according to former Senator and broadcaster, Paschal Mooney.
“The Opposition are attempting to mislead and confuse people," he said.
“The plans are not being abandoned. The public are entitled to know the truth on this hugely important issue which, when completed, will act as a major stimulant to the economy of the region.
“I understand the importance this has for Mayo and the West. As current Chairman of Fáilte Ireland Northwest, I know that increased visitor numbers are vital to the local economy and the Western Rail Corridor is the backbone to this.
"I cannot believe the members of the opposition would play politics when thousands of jobs are at stake.
"Phase 1 will be completed later this year and will see the reinstatement of the line from Ennis to Athenry, including Galway to Athenry commuter services.
"The Government is committed to completing Phase 2 (Athenry to Tuam) by 2011 and Phase 3 (Tuam to Claremorris) by 2015,” he said.
The Western Rail Corridor project allows for the phased re-opening of sections of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Athenry and onwards to Claremorris and the upgrade, for commuter services, of the Athenry to Galway line.
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Investment in tourism is vital for the local Clare economy and is the key to economic recovery in the locality.
That’s according to MEP Candidate for the North West Constituency, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney believes that improving local amenities for tourists and families will stop the exodus of local holidaymakers to destinations like the South of France.
“As Chairman of Failte Ireland North West, I have visited Co. Clare many times and I believe that investing in the tourism market will boost the local economy and provide much needed jobs for the locality.
“I have noticed in the past that many local holidaymakers went to the South of France due to the high level of amenities especially for young families.
“I know this year is especially difficult for families and I want to bring the same high quality family amenities to County Clare.
“If we are to make Clare competitive on the international market, we need to boost tourism in the locality and keep local holidaymakers at home.
“There is no reason why it can’t be promoted as a year round holiday destination for tourists and families within and outside of Ireland.
“But this can only be done with the right investment in tourism related infrastructure and amenities.
“This can be achieved at EU level and I will push to maximise funding for the region.
“It is a beautiful County and we need to promote it both at home and abroad as such.
“By channelling strong EU investment into the local tourism industry we can create vital jobs for the locality,” he said.
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Cut red tape for local businesses – Mooney
Local businesses are struggling under the amount of red tape which must be cut dramatically in order for SME’s to survive, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney.
The impact of the current global recession on Small to Medium Size industries was made very clear to the European Candidate while on the campaign trail.
Mr Mooney believes that reducing the amount of red tape and regulations will have an immediate knock-on benefit for local businesses.
“It is the Small and Medium size enterprises which are suffering the most in the current economic climate,” said Mr Mooney.
“I have spoken to several business owners recently who have had to let staff go, as they are unable to compete and are caught up in a wealth of red tape.
“We have reached a crisis point and there is a lot that can be done at European level to put initiatives in place to protect local enterprise.
“Over the next three years, the EU plans to cut red tape for SME’s by 25%.
“This will go a long way towards reducing the amount of overregulation in this sector.
“All unnecessary business costs at European level must be eliminated and, if elected, I will fight for this to proceed.
“Already the European Commission has brought forward proposals to abolish financial reporting obligations for the smallest companies in Europe.
“These new rules will lighten the regulation which applies to small businesses.
“This is just one way where we can find European answers to local concerns,” he said.
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Research and Innovation in food industry vital – Mooney
Research and innovation in the Irish food industry is vital and a key to economic recovery, according to MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF).
Mr Mooney has said that consumers are becoming increasingly health conscious and investment in the food sector must reflect this new trend.
“Over 40,000 people are directly employed in the Irish food sector and we need to protect these jobs,” said Mr Mooney.
“The answer lies in research and development to ensure we maintain our position at the forefront of the European and global marketplace.
“Investment in the food sector must be linked to innovation to meet the needs of an increasingly sophisticated consumer.
“If we can channel EU funding into R&D then this market has the potential to flourish and provide job creation.
“We have to support local industries which are providing new ways of thinking and are able to adapt to changing trends,” he said.
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Mooney calls for higher toy safety standards
MEP Candidate for the North West, Paschal Mooney (FF) has called for higher toy safety checks on all toys entering the Irish market.
Last year, millions of toys had to be recalled across the EU after they breached safety standards.
“This is a serious health and safety issue and is a worry for every parent in the country,” said Mr Mooney.
“They should be able to assume the product they buy is safe for their child to use.
“However, in many instances this has not been the case.
“Stores are quick to pull toys from the shelf if they in any way faulty, but we need to prevent this from happening in the first place.
“I don’t have to stress the dangers associated with poor quality toys.
“The EU is currently strengthening and updating their system for checking that all toy imports coming into Europe comply with safety standards.
“The majority of toys are manufactured in China and the EU is working closely with the Chinese Government to improve and update its laws regulating the manufacture of toys.
“This is crucial in order to protect Irish parents and their children,” he said.
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