National Issues

Justice

On his election to the Seanad Eugene was appointed by Enda Kenny as Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Justice Equality and Law Reform and was made a member of the Joint Committee on the Constitution and the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women’s Rights [debates].

Eugene has been very active in the Seanad in highlighting the lack of coherent government policy in tackling gangland and serious crime, the folly of this government in opting out of cooperation in EU policing and criminal law measures, and the need for the Mahon Tribunal to complete its investigation of corruption in Irish politics.

National Challenges

There are many challenges facing the country - none more so than effectively managing rapid change while improving the quality of life. You can shape a new political landscape at the next General Election. Ireland has been governed for too long by the present Government. Arrogance and complacency have bred costly incompetence. We must bring accountability and competence back to Government.

Fine Gael and Labour offer an effective alternative to Irish voters at the nation’s next General Election, as we have done locally in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council since 2004. In addition to core Fine Gael policies on healthcare reform, elimination of waste in public expenditure and more effective law enforcement, I believe that Education, Environment and Energy demand a new, innovative approach.

EDUCATION

We need greater funding for pre-school and primary education to guarantee real social inclusion from an early age and underpin long-term economic growth.

ENVIRONMENT

We must fulfil our international commitments and EU legal obligations to maintain our environment for sustainable business and quality of life.

ENERGY

We must bring strategic and green sources of energy online in Ireland, while driving a coordinated EU approach to guarantee energy security.