Louth Cllr replaces McGuinness as MEP for Mid-North West

With a backrgound in agriculture, Mr Markey stated that the negotiation of the next CAP agreement will be “critically important” for the next decade of farming in Ireland.

Fine Gael Councillor Colm Markey said he is honoured to become an MEP for the Midlands -North West constituency after being nominated to replace Mairead McGuinness following the announcement today that she is Ireland’s European Commissioner designate.

Colm Markey, who was first elected to Louth County Council in 2009 and is a former President of Macra na Ferime, said: “I am deeply honoured at my appointment as one of Ireland’s MEPs for the Midlands-North West constituency and am committed to working hard for my constituents and to advancing Ireland’s interests at European level.”

He said he has “worked closely” with predecessor Ms McGuinness for almost two decades, and wished her all the best in her new role heading into a crucial period with the challenges presented by Brexit and Covid-19.

With a backrgound in agriculture, Mr Markey stated that the negotiation of the next CAP agreement will be “critically important” for the next decade of farming in Ireland.

“I am looking forward to working with representatives from other member states as we build upon strengthening our cooperation and assisting with the Covid-19 recovery,” said Markey concluded.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar noted that Mr Markey will be a great addition to Fine Gael’s team in the European Parliament.

“Colm Markey brings a wealth of experience to the table and will be a formidable force for the constituents of the Midlands North-West constituency.”

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ICSA president Edmond Phelan meanwhile congratulated Ms McGuinness on her appointment as EU Commissioner with responsibility for 'Financial Services, Financial Stability and Capital Markets'.

Commenting on the appointment Mr Phelan said: “Mairead McGuinness has been a very capable representative of Irish interests at EU level for many years, especially in relation to CAP and Brexit. I have no doubt that she will continue to do her utmost to keep Ireland’s perspective on Brexit centre stage at the EU Commission.”

He added: “ICSA looks forward to continuing to work closely with Commissioner McGuinness over the coming months and years.”