European candidates must commit to protecting the EU single market in the interests of Irish businesses - MEP Walsh

Amidst rising Euroscpetiscim, candidates for the upcoming European elections must commit to protecting the EU Single Market which is worth €14.5 trillion to Irish businesses, a Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh says.

She was speaking following an event ‘The EU is Open for Business’, which she hosted to mark Europe Day on Thursday May 9 in Galway city, with special guest Leo Varadkar, TD.

MEP Walsh was also joined by Deputy Varadkar for a canvass of Galway city following the event.

She said: “The EU single market is one of the greatest assets we have as a small island nation. Over the last 50 years, it has truly transformed our country, allowing us to become one of the world’s strongest economies.

“It is the world’s biggest single market area, gives Irish businesses access to almost half a billion customers, and is worth €14.5 trillion.

“However, in an election where we find ourselves faced with Euroscepctic candidates, we cannot take it for granted. Those wishing to represent Ireland in Europe must commit to protecting and championing the single market on the international stage.

“As we see some MEPs and candidates turning their back on European solutions to issues such as migration, Irish businesses and workers cannot afford to see them do the same again on the economy.

“We have seen what the UK’s protectionist and isolationist approach has done to their economy - that’s not the future we want for our great nation.”