Transition Year students from across Leinster are gathering this morning in Kilkenny to debate and discuss what Ireland’s priorities should be for its Presidency of the EU.
Ireland South MEP Billy Kelleher and the Renew Europe Group are hosting an interactive workshop in the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny which will also be attended by the Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne.
Key issues affecting the European Union will also be under discussion.
MEP Kelleher, who’s also Deputy Leader of the Renew Europe Group, says; “The issues of the EU Budget, the Common Agricultural Policy, the Common Fisheries Policy, Security & Defence, Competitiveness and Innovation are all key issues that will be decided over the next 12 months.
“Europe is at cross-roads, and Ireland will play a key role in charting the future of the European Union when it assumes the Presidency on July 1st.
“Ireland, as both a net contributor to the EU Budget and a member for over 53 years, can bring wisdom, common sense and a strong commitment to the European project.
“For me, I have always believed that the future direction of both my country and the European Union must be informed by the people who will spend most of their lives living in them.
“That’s why I want to bring young people together, from all over the county – rural, urban and city students, to think, to talk and to decide.”
Stay tuned as KCLR News’ Martin Quilty’s at the event.
