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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 A win for Alban Maginness will be a win for us all
The European election on Thursday 4 June is about you and your future. Europe is having an ever-greater impact on all our lives. That’s why the North needs an MEP who will be able to have an impact in Europe for us all. With the global economic downturn taking a severe toll in Northern Ireland, it is crucial that we have a strong, effective voice in the European Parliament. Alban Maginness is the only candidate who can deliver for you, because the SDLP is the only major party in the North that is pro-Europe. Our membership of the Party of European Socialists gives us real influence at the very heart of Europe. We used that influence to deliver results for you in the past – and we will again. In this manifesto, we set out an ambitious agenda for you in Europe. We pledge to represent your interests effectively and to fight for your needs tirelessly. Complementing the dynamic proposals the SDLP has put forward to tackle the downturn in the North and throughout the island of Ireland, this manifesto is a charter for radical action. It is a roadmap to greater prosperity, true equality and opportunity for all. As your MEP, Alban Maginness will be a vigorous champion of your rights, aspirations and hopes for the future. This election must not become a sectarian vanity contest. Other parties will want it to be all about who will emerge as top-dog. That’s because they have no record in Europe to run on or no positive agenda for the future. The bottom line is that they have failed to deliver – and have let you down. And that’s not just in Europe. In the Executive, the record of the two main parties falls far short of what you need and deserve. The SDLP always puts the best interests of the people we serve first. When we win, you win. A win for Alban Maginness will be a win for us all.
Mark Durkan MP MLA SDLP Leader WHEN WE WIN, YOU WIN 3 amEuro.qxd:Layout 1 5/20/09 9:22 AM Page 3
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global economic recession, instability change targets. I will fight for a fair deal Message and uncertainty. The downturn is exerting for our farmers during negotiations on a severe toll in Northern Ireland. CAP reform and for a better future for our Thousands have already lost their jobs, fishermen and coastal communities. from Alban with worse likely still to come. Firms and I will also support vital and valued families are struggling to make ends community and voluntary organisations by Maginness meet. People are worrying about what ensuring that the Executive fully delivers the future holds. the PEACE III funding programme. he election to the European Over the last few months, I have The SDLP has consistently supported Parliament on Thursday 4 June travelled throughout the North. I have the Lisbon Treaty because we believe it takes place against a backdrop of listened intently to people's concerns. I provides for more transparent decision- T have also found inspiration in the making and better representation of your aspirations they have for themselves, interests in Europe. Now more than ever, their families, their communities and this Northern Ireland needs a strong, credible country. pro-Europe voice at the very heart of This manifesto sets out how the SDLP Europe. Global recession demands will work to ensure that people's best international, not insular, responses. We hopes and highest ambitions are fulfilled. need to be outward-looking and forward- It is the programme of work that I pledge thinking. to deliver if you elect me to serve you in The SDLP is the only major party Europe. I give you my word: your needs offering that positive platform to voters in will be my priority. this election. Our membership of the As your MEP, I will work tirelessly to Party of European Socialists - a powerful ensure that our region will be at the grouping of social democratic and labour forefront of economic recovery and that parties from across Europe - gives us positive initiatives to help workers real influence where it matters. You know through the worst of the downturn are we used that influence to deliver for you delivered. I will champion the needs of in the past when John Hume was our small and medium sized businesses by MEP. We want to deliver for you again. campaigning for an EU Commissioner Northern Ireland can emerge from the who will eliminate red tape. In addition, I current downturn with genuine hope for will push for new regulation for the whole prosperity in the future. To ensure that financial sector, including hedge funds we do, it is vital that your voice is heard and private equity. and listened to in Europe. Our best days Huge opportunities exist to grow our are yet to come. After five years of losing 'green' technologies and I believe that in Europe, it's time for us all to win again. rural communities can and must benefit significantly from ambitious investment in this sector. By developing our indigenous renewable industry we can help to drive down energy costs and contribute Alban Maginness MLA positively towards radical global climate
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Economic prosperity, employment and a new social Europe STRIVING TOWARDS FINANCIAL STABILITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH The world has changed dramatically since the last European election. The economic crisis is hitting economies, businesses, workers, families and citizens all over Europe hard. The fundamental failures of the economic system that persisted over recent decades are undeniable: an unregulated global financial market that historically sacrificed long term investment, jobs, wages and the general wellbeing of the planet and its people for the benefit of a few. This economic crisis must be tackled on all fronts: international, European, national and local. If the European Union is serious about relaunching the global economy, then we need to end tax avoidance, curb excessive pay and bring in new regulation for the whole financial sector including hedge funds and private equity. Just as Europe must pull its The SDLP has strong policies and has anseo sa Tionól. weight alongside the USA, China and used our influence in Europe to deliver As a member of the PES, the SDLP Japan in countering this recession, all for Northern Ireland in the past. And we will be as bold in purpose and political parties at the local level must will do so again. imaginative in thought in the European also step up to the challenge. Locally, the SDLP launched a radical Parliament as we have been here in the The SDLP is part of the Party of document, New Priorities in Difficult Assembly. European Socialists (PES), a united Times: Supporting the Northern Ireland group of social democratic and labour Economy. This paper outlines measures OUR COMMITMENT TO A parties and one of the largest and most to support our economy and identifies 'GREEN' ECONOMY ways in which money can be found to powerful groupings in the European Policy-makers throughout Europe and fund them. Parliament. That gives us real influence beyond have thrown their support behind at the heart of Europe. Influence to Beidh an SDLP, mar bhall de PES, creating more 'green collar' jobs and reform the financial markets, counteract chomh láidir céanna inár gcuspóirí agus increasing 'green' investments to counter the recession and prepare our local inár gcuid machnaimh shamhlaíoch sa the present downturn. For the SDLP, in economy to create new jobs and growth. Phairlimint Eorpach agus a bhíomar these difficult economic times it simply
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However, there is little doubt that wind or tidal power as alternative renewable energy technologies are significant breakthroughs for Ireland and our economy North and South. The manufacture of such technologies could provide hundreds of jobs for people across Ireland. Building and servicing such plants will provide more work, while generating and transmitting the electricity will provide further employment as well as permanent and valuable revenue for both governments. Clearly, all of this requires massive financial investment, probably with State intervention, as the amounts involved will be huge. Nonetheless, in the long term, this is undoubtedly the best option for our island. The SDLP will work in the European Parliament to push policy- makers to take the lead in promoting and coordinating national policies in support of a green economy as a central pillar to our response to the economic crisis. BENEFITING FROM EUROPE IN A TIME OF ECONOMIC CRISIS In presenting its Northern Ireland Task “The green economy is a central pillar Force report , the European Commission to economic recovery” encouraged Northern Ireland to reap maximum benefits from the EU support makes good long term economic sense sustainable. Consumers in the North we can expect to receive until 2013. The to use our unique natural resources to should not be at the mercy of fluctuating report is also an invitation to develop support the creation and development of international oil prices. If we had the new ideas and strategies to help our industries in the North that create more infrastructure in place, Ireland could local economy survive the downturn and jobs and play a role in managing climate become a huge exporter of electricity to prepare for renewed growth when it change. mainland Europe. The technology to happens. With ingenuity and industry, we can produce such power already exists, In Europe, the SDLP will provide clear build a strong recovery plan with a although it is still relatively expensive and leadership to develop new solutions to coordinated investment in jobs and green time consuming in terms of installation, ensure Northern Ireland harnesses the growth at its centre. plus the planning system is slow and goodwill in Europe towards this region. Today, Northern Ireland imports 97% of laborious as far as these projects are We must capitalise on all possibilities our energy. This is neither desirable nor concerned. and opportunities to boost our economy.
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should commit to a long term target of meeting that challenge. We also want to see Northern Ireland specifically represented in the cabinet of the Regional Development Commissioner with immediate effect. SUPPORTING OUR SMEs Nearly every business begins as a small enterprise serving local markets. With ambitious management and the right help, SMEs (small and medium sized enterprises) can become major employers. The SDLP is ambitious for the expansion and growth of our SMEs into international markets, since we believe that today's SMEs are tomorrow's major employers. Underpinning work on the Internal Market, the preparation of a renewed Lisbon Strategy will be high on the EU institutions' agenda, in view of its planned adoption at the Spring Summit in 2010. Priorities in this area must be the promotion of environmentally-friendly growth and reduced bureaucracy for SMEs. The SDLP and the PES support these objectives. Although the initial goal of becoming For example, the SDLP will argue the R&D projects under the EU's 7th “the world's most competitive and case in Europe for stronger regional Framework Programme. If our economy dynamic knowledge-based economy” by discretion in the area of state aid to is to keep up with high-skilled research 2010 may now seem out of reach, the ensure our economy remains and development-led economies, we review of the Lisbon Strategy will once competitive. We will ensure serious need a number of joined-up initiatives again be an opportunity to influence consideration is given to proposals that don't solely rely on EU financial aid. Europe's competitiveness in a difficult aimed at reinvigorating this island's To this end, the SDLP proposes economic environment. The SDLP will economy to benefit our workers and expanding the high-speed broadband promote small business growth locally as small businesses in construction and network. While we realise there is a huge a key part of our strategy to create a other key sectors. cost involved in ensuring the whole of high-wage, high-skill economy in the In the Task Force report, the Northern Ireland (particularly our rural North and integrate it into ever-growing Commission encouraged Northern areas) gains access to high-speed North-South opportunities. Ireland to increase our participation in broadband, we believe the NI Executive The EU's Small Business Act - which
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aims to support entrepreneurship and and enhancing European Investment represented across the many relevant promote SME growth by helping SMEs Bank support for small businesses. policy departments of the EU tackle the problems which hamper their Although we welcome the creation of a Commission, including those responsible development - has been given strong SME Envoy and will work closely with the for environment, IT, internal market and support from the European Parliament to Envoy's office to maximise its role as the competition. Supporting small business make it politically binding. We will voice of SMEs in Europe, this post does growth should not be left solely to the continue to support measures that create not quite possess the authority of a Directorate General for Enterprise. an environment within which standalone Commissioner. A NEW SOCIAL EUROPE entrepreneurs can thrive. The SDLP upholds our proposal to The impact of the economic downturn For example, there is a need to create an EU Commissioner for small will be with us for years to come. Within strengthen European measures by and medium sized industries. It is the space of two years, it is estimated speeding up the use of structural funds essential that the interests of SMEs are that Europe will have lost 10 million jobs,
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“We will play our role in ensuring a fair deal for all”
with dramatic social consequences for people all over the EU. Here in Northern Ireland, unemployment is expected to rise to 6% by the end of 2009. Actions taken to fight the recession must be progressive and contain solid social principles that put people's interests first. To this end, the SDLP and our PES colleagues will work for a European IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: Employment Pact to safeguard • Push for a strong recovery plan with coordinated investment in jobs and green growth. employment, create new and better jobs, fight mass unemployment, and • Market Northern Ireland as an ideal location for investment in these jobs that help strengthen workers' rights, working put our region on the path to a cleaner, more energy efficient future. conditions and equal pay. • Seek support for regional planning policies that accelerate, not impede, the Ní mór do shaorghluaiseacht saothair a application process for the creation of renewable energy plants. bheith bunaithe ar phrionsabail atá díríthe ar phá, ar choinníollacha oibre, ar • Demand clear regional discretion in state aid to support competitiveness and jobs obair agus ar áit oibre chomhionann. at this time. Free movement of labour must be • Support measures that facilitate expansion of the high-speed broadband network based on the principle of equal pay and across the North. equal working conditions for equal work • Boost Northern Ireland's competitiveness prospects by ensuring the offer of a seat in the same workplace. on the cabinet table of the Regional Development Commissioner is immediately The Socialist group in the European taken up. Parliament achieved implementation of EU-wide laws on working time, and • In the face of currency fluctuations, look for measures to promote currency stability brought in measures to give part time and in the long term, campaign for the introduction of the Euro. Only an all-island and temporary workers the same rights approach to the economy, including the use of a single currency, will attract investors as full time workers as regards training, and enable Ireland North and South to seriously compete on the global stage. pensions, maternity rights and leave. • Promote a small and medium sized enterprise Commissioner and in the SDLP MPs supported similar measures meantime, make the office of SME Envoy work to the benefit of local small at Westminster. businesses. In the forthcoming European • Underline that fundamental social rights for all must form a central part of our way Parliamentary term, we will play our role out of this recession. in ensuring a continued fairer deal for all.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Education, skills and innovation When We Win Workers Win
It is widely accepted that in order to ensure our economic prosperity we need to devote further resources to research, innovation, better education and training systems. We believe that now more than ever, human resources are the European Union's main asset. These are central to the creation and transmission of knowledge and a determining factor in our society's potential for innovation. The SDLP has long recognised that a well-educated and highly skilled workforce is crucial for economic growth through both indigenous enterprise and inward investment. This can only be achieved through ongoing investment in a high-class system of education and training suited to the needs of individuals and of society. Locally, the SDLP has demonstrated its commitment to these principles by opposing the 11-plus and sustainable workforce better prepared to the Netherlands, which subsidises an promoting lifelong learning. ride the waves of an economic storm. In employee's wage and offers employers the long term this must entail the opportunity to apply for funding. This island has traditionally produced development of innovation-led training to generations of innovative thinkers with a • The introduction of further funding and ensure Northern Ireland becomes a strong sense of entrepreneurship. During opportunities for graduate training champion of innovation. the present economic downturn, we want apprenticeships. to secure a better environment to further In the short term, it is essential that • Enhance current training provision develop this region's potential as a high levels of support are provided to through increased funding to the knowledge-based economy that not only those who have become unemployed or Department of Employment and keeps up with other regions around the risk being made unemployed. This is Learning strategy 'Success through world but in the long term, surpasses support that workers in other European Skills' with schemes specifically them to claim a position of leadership in countries are already receiving. focused on those who have recently the global market. Locally, we propose the following become unemployed. RETRAINING AND UPSKILLING measures for implementation which have • Skilled person's initiative to assist OUR WORKERS been fully and independently costed: highly skilled people who have Payroll Shelter: a wage subsidy The SDLP considers it essential that • become unemployed start their own scheme similar to that in Wales and the NI Executive helps create a businesses.
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“Working to achieve a culture that
Furthermore, the SDLP has proposed thinks innovation, works innovation creating a virtual 'Open Faculty for Innovation'. This Open Faculty would and grows innovation” serve as a platform to engage and encourage not only those in our including new markets on which, with the of the 21st century, as is clear from the universities and our regional colleges but proper investment and encouragement, recommendations of the NI Task Force. also within our businesses to work the North can be expected to become a We now have a chance to significantly towards achieving a culture that thinks world player. These include exploiting our grow internationally and be held as an innovation, works innovation and grows unique selling point as a clean and green example to our eastern neighbours of innovation. region open for business across a range how the EU over time can contribute to of sectors (clean energy, clean lifting the economy and prospects of a COMPETING ON THE manufacturing, clean health, etc). Member State. INTERNATIONAL STAGE We envisage the Open Faculty for The SDLP will use the goodwill from The valuable report of the MATRIX Innovation playing a key role in boosting our European colleagues to press for panel outlines a preliminary roadmap the North's competitiveness on the swift action in implementing the MATRIX that the North must follow if we are to international level. Practitioners and proposals. We will not stand for missed “meet the challenges of global experts from not only these islands but opportunities or neglected competition and take advantage of new around the world could be Fellows of this responsibilities when it comes to opportunities to make our economy more Faculty, mentoring businesses, inspiring delivering a sustained innovation competitive, deliver increased prosperity 1 students and fostering competitive environment in which Northern Ireland's and tackle disadvantage and poverty.” research. knowledge economy can thrive and Policy-makers have been presented Europe too is keen to see our region grow. with proposals and recommendations prosper as we enter the second decade MAKING MORE OF EU OPPORTUNITIES IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: The NI Task Force report concludes that Northern Ireland would benefit from • Work for the introduction of targeted support for our workforce - on a par with increasing its participation in the various that already provided in other European countries - during the economic EU education, training and youth-related downturn. initiatives. In particular, the North • Prepare individuals and businesses here for the upturn through better funding receives more ERASMUS programme provision for training programmes and apprenticeships. students than it sends overseas. The • Make innovation a critical part of our economic policies by championing the SDLP wants to address this trend, and will look at ways to encourage our higher launch of a virtual Open Faculty for Innovation here. and further education students to • Seek EU support for the timely and sound implementation of the MATRIX panel develop language and other skills recommendations. through studying in institutions in other • Look at ways to facilitate uptake in the ERASMUS programme to enable more EU Member States, including removing financial impediments that may prevent higher and further education students to participate in study abroad. greater uptake in the programme.
1 Northern Ireland Programme for Government 2008-2011, 29 January 2008. WHEN WE WIN, YOU WIN 11 amEuro.qxd:Layout 1 5/20/09 9:22 AM Page 11
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Ambitious action to manage climate change The PES has been at the forefront in action to manage climate change. Northern Ireland. The goodwill and developing a progressive global strategy We believe the current financial crisis resources in Europe available for our to combat climate change. This work has must be used as a springboard to region can only be translated into action enabled Europe to show leadership in accelerate action on climate change. here by a party which is committed to the advancing new, efficient 'green' With thousands of jobs lost in Northern European ideal and prepared to build on technologies and reducing the risk of a Ireland and millions across Europe, now our links there. future loss of prosperity due to the is the time to create new jobs by moving Only the SDLP can bring the resources impact of climate change. The SDLP is a in an orderly way from our present from Europe which could be critical in valued member of the PES and will work dangerous and expensive over-reliance creating the thousands of green jobs alongside our colleagues throughout on imported fossil fuels. This requires a which Northern Ireland needs. Our Europe to lay down ambitious global partnership between Brussels and membership of the PES enables the SDLP to win friends and allies in every European country and so will enable the “Now is the time to accelerate North to emerge as a leader among these islands in implementing climate action on climate change” change policies that will enhance, and not impede, economic policy.
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Ba mhian linn ár gcúrsaí dependency on increasingly expensive We recognise that the transition to a eacnamaíochta a chur chun cinn trí níos energy imports. Volatile energy prices low-carbon and sustainable mó feidhme a bhaint as teicneolaíochtaí are hitting families and consumers development path can only be achieved atá tíosach ar fhuinneamh inár bpobal, hard. It is clear that world energy through a coordinated international sa bhaile agus ar obair. Tig le hiompar prices lie behind some of these effort, enshrined in a fair and effective poiblí, dearadh agus tógáil meabhrach increases which make it difficult for global agreement. That's why the global na dtithe, na bhfoirgneamh phoiblí agus regional administrations to address the climate change summit in Copenhagen na n-áiteanna oibre an mhí-úsáid cur problem. EU policy-makers, however, in December 2009 will be crucial in amú fuinnimh a sheachaint. have a key role to play on the global laying down a roadmap for action for the We want to boost our economy through stage in controlling and seeking to post-2012 framework, as well as giving the use of more energy efficient stabilise energy prices, thereby endorsement to the need to support technologies in our communities, at ensuring a better deal for Europe's economic growth and create green jobs home and at work. Efficient public citizens. in the short term while laying the basis transport and intelligent design and The SDLP believes that the EU's for a more sustainable economy for the construction of homes, public buildings energy strategy must not only deliver future. and workplaces can all help avoid low-carbon energy networks and wasteful energy consumption. maximise efficiency but importantly, it By focusing on becoming more must deliver low and stable prices for IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: energy efficient, we can reduce our consumers. • Support EU-led negotiations for an agreement on a 30% global target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. • Secure real economic incentives for Northern Ireland to exploit its natural advantages - wind, water, afforestation - in potential renewable resources to out-perform European targets and provide employment through technologies our region can lead in, including compressed air storage. • Assist developing countries to combine necessary economic growth and social progress with an increasingly responsible and effective climate policy. • Ensure EU policy-makers work towards an energy framework that does more for less, and delivers stability and the best price for consumers.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Environment and public health When We Win the Environment Wins We all have a responsibility to protect, laws. glan, glas agus sláintiúil. preserve and improve our environment for Beidh sé ina phríomhaidhm thar an It will be a key requirement over the next present and future generations. The chéad thréimhse Parlaiminte eile go Parliamentary term to ensure Ireland, European Union has a longstanding body gcinnteofar go ndéana Éire, idir North and South, lives up to its of legislation for the protection of the Thuaisceart agus Dheisceart, a gcuid environmental commitments and environment, and is focused on ensuring dualgaisí agus gealltanas a obligations and can reap the rewards of a full compliance and adherence to these chomhlíonadh, ar leas timpeallcht atá clean, green and healthy environment. Demands on Europe's environment today - including climate change, land use change, habitat destruction, pollution and waste disposal - all pose a threat to biodiversity. But by protecting the natural environment and ensuring the recovery of habitats and species, biodiversity can in fact play a key role in controlling these pressures, particularly climate change. We will work in the European Parliament to build and strengthen successful EU biodiversity policies, including the Birds and Habitats Directives, and persuade decision-makers that biodiversity is an important tool we need to preserve in order to successfully manage the many pressures our environment faces. On a global level, waste production is leading to overuse of materials and energy and the depletion of the earth's renewable and non-renewable resources. Europe must do more to minimise waste production and give consideration to innovative and effective measures that underpin the recycling market, including state aid and other intervention methods. We remain committed to an all-Ireland waste strategy that has at its core strong prevention measures, exceeds EU standards and preserves the attractiveness of our countryside, towns and cities.
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HEALTH IS THE GREATEST protection is crucial. strategy for 2008-2013, so that the WEALTH In the European Parliament, the links between health and economic prosperity are more widely recognised The importance of our personal SDLP will work for better integration of and form the basis of policy decisions health and wellbeing and the extent to health and environment policies to locally. which our environment can affect how ensure that local communities and the we feel and act have rightly gained wider environment in which we live are The added value of having a strong increased attention from policy- health-promoting and environmentally voice at the European level to address makers. Increases in conditions sustainable. issues that affect the North cannot be including obesity, diabetes, asthma, Health can also be an important underestimated. In relation to the high blood pressure and heart disease driver of economic growth and provision of cross-border healthcare, are partly caused by environmental prosperity. There is an increasing the SDLP will campaign to facilitate the factors such as poor air quality, low- realisation of the importance free movement of patients and medical cost, low-standard food, a investment in our health will play in the personnel within the EU, and campaign poorly-designed natural environment future development of our society and for the highest common principles and and over-reliance on cars, which limits economy. The SDLP, through the PES, standards of care. walking and cycling. Ensuring strong will press the Commission to ensure environmental - and therefore health - full implementation of the EU's health
INEUROPETHESDLPWILL: • Support a new framework that maintains and strengthens protection of our biodiversity post-2012. • Encourage measures to protect our rivers, lakes and the Irish Sea from pollution. • Seek support for a stronger EU framework on waste which focuses efforts more squarely on the prevention component of waste minimisation and examines measures to make the recycling industry more profitable. • Gain recognition of the need to tackle environmental issues on an all-island basis, given that waste and pollution know no borders. • Ensure increased consideration of the linkages between a clean environment, people's health and economic prosperity. • Commit to tackling health inequalities in Ireland and throughout Europe by highlighting the need to carry out health impact assessments for all policy formation. • Support greater cross-border cooperation on health to provide the best health care for the island of Ireland. • Recognise the value of addressing cross-border health threats and free cross- border movement of patients and health professionals.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 A new regional policy for the 21st century
Today’s global economic turmoil is a is proud of this record. We will therefore focus on infrastructure to one that takes stark reminder of just how important maintain pressure on the Executive to more account of the economic potential regional and cohesion policies are as fully deliver on PEACE III. Community of regions. This ‘next generation’ of factors of financial stability and long term and voluntary groups and those working European regional policy must enable all investment in sustainable social and towards a better and shared future must regions to capitalize on their ability to economic growth. The SDLP has been not be overburdened or unfairly become more competitive and dynamic extremely successful in maximising EU obstructed in their quest to secure on the international stage. funding, and Ireland North and South has appropriate funding. The SDLP will demonstrate more greatly benefited from European regional The coming years provide an innovative, strategic thinking than has policy investment. opportunity to shape European regional been on offer from the three MEPs over Indeed, the work of John Hume in and cohesion policy post-2013, in the the last five years. We will look for other proposing and enabling the context of the next EU Budget. In an ways through which our region can implementation of the PEACE I and II expanded Europe - where Northern maximise its EU membership in the programmes delivered over £500 million Ireland is just one of over 270 regions - absence of Objective 1 status. As stated and created over 8000 jobs around the we will campaign for a new EU regional before, stronger regional discretion in the North and in the border areas. The SDLP policy that moves beyond the traditional area of state aid would help create a
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Agricultural and fishing industries When We Win Rural Communities Win
PROVIDING CERTAINTY TO Tá cosaint níos cuimsí de dhíth do na CAP REFORM: ENSURING A FAIR LOCAL FARMERS feirmeacha beaga, ar mhaithe le DEAL FOR FARMERS cúiseanna timpeallachta agus There are a number of challenges Any system that has been around for eacnamaíochta; tá sé ar leas na ndaoine facing local farmers during the next as long as the Common Agricultural go léir go mbeidh muid go fóill in ann Parliamentary term. The SDLP pledges Policy (CAP) may require detailed review toradh áitiúil a cheannach. to be the strongest voice in Europe for a and reform, not least to ensure that the farming industry seeking certainty for the We need specific protection for smaller money spent on the CAP reaches the future. Our membership of the Party of farmers - for environmental as well as farmer, and is not absorbed by European Socialists places us in a economic reasons, it's in all our interests administrative costs and red tape. to remain able to buy local produce. unique position of strength. No other The coming years are key for local MEP will have the extensive network of A further priority will be to address the farmers many of whom have benefited contacts and influence to deliver for the issue of farm gate prices being less than greatly from the CAP to date. With the North. the cost of production, an issue of Health Check completed, the medium Supporting the continuation of particular concern to the dairy sector. term future of the CAP may be strongly sustainable farming helps maintain the We will strive to ensure the rural influenced by discussions on how the countryside and contributes to rural environment remains a place in which EU's overall 2014-2020 budget should be development. We will use the review of people wish to live and work, by securing spent. This is likely to raise the question the existing Less Favoured Area (LFA) equal access to public services and of what the EU's future priorities should scheme to press for specific protection maintaining normal service provision and be and the subsequent importance and strengthening of our LFAs to allow social amenities to prevent people from placed on farming. for the long term growth of farming here feeling isolated. The current economic crisis underlines in Northern Ireland. the urgent need to fulfil the EU's goal of becoming the most competitive and dynamic economy in the world. The SDLP believes the agricultural sector can contribute to this vision. The Party of European Socialists have led efforts to counter the European Commission's sometimes over-liberal position and sought a proper balance between adapting the CAP to new challenges and the international context, and protecting farmers and the environment. We will work with our Socialist colleagues to ensure that the budget made available for farming beyond 2013 takes into account the needs of Northern Ireland's farming industry and its unique
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contribution to our rural economy. We will development activities. In addition to the depends largely on access to high-speed use the opportunity of CAP reform to reform, however, the SDLP will work to broadband. While we have urged the integrate health goals into the CAP, with a develop new ideas and strategies to Executive to make a long term view to better linking health, environment, achieve a more balanced performance commitment to full expansion of the high- infrastructure and agriculture. across our region; a new rural speed broadband network, the SDLP STANDING UP FOR OUR FISHING development policy for the 21st century. notes that the European Investment Bank is already involved in the financing INDUSTRY A key challenge facing Europe's rural regions over the coming years is enabling of energy as well as telecoms EU cutbacks in days at sea and quota the rural economy to compete and thrive infrastructure throughout Europe. We will reductions in cod demonstrate how local during uncertain economic times and explore the possibilities that may be fishermen need strong representation in crucially, to sustain itself in preparation open to the North in respect to EIB Brussels to protect this industry from ill- for the upturn when it happens. assistance in order to eliminate the advised thinking. We will work to find digital divide here. solutions that restore the worst-off stocks The SDLP has called for greater At the European level, the SDLP will and at the same time, guarantee that investment in renewable energy here in continue to stress the importance of the fishing can continue to be a reliable Northern Ireland, in an effort to meet and continued provision of high quality public source of revenue for local fishermen. exceed climate change obligations and at the same time, create jobs and boost services in rural areas to promote Creating targeted retraining and our economy. The development of a equality, minimise rural exclusion and upskilling opportunities is one way of healthy indigenous renewable energy combat isolation. The SDLP and our providing a future for fishermen, but we industry will contribute to sustaining our PES colleagues will seek support for will demand a long term response that rural economy in particular, since it is the policies and incentives that ensure equal ensures a simple and sustainable system rural parts of Northern Ireland that offer access to these services - education, for managing our fisheries that can last the best location and conditions for many healthcare, culture, transport and well into the 21st century. renewable energy technologies, communications - securing a decent life DEVELOPING OUR RURAL including wind and tidal. for all farming and non-farming rural dwellers and their families. COMMUNITIES The development of rural areas Traditionally, the SDLP - through John Hume, Bríd Rodgers and others in local IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: Councils, the Assembly, the Executive and at Westminster - has led with • Protect and strengthen our Less Favoured Areas. policies and positions aimed at • Secure a fair and sustainable future for farmers and the rural community under sustaining our rural communities. These CAP reform. include supporting decentralisation and retaining and investing further in • Develop a long term, steady policy in relation to farm gate prices and production essential frontline services in rural costs. communities. • Stand up for our trawlermen, the fish processing industry and coastal Besides the central role our farmers communities' interests during Common Fisheries Policy reform. and fishermen play in sustaining rural • Promote and market internationally our local produce on an all-Ireland basis to communities, more focus must be given avail of the positive attitude towards 'Irish' produce in Europe and beyond. to supporting rural vitality and providing equal opportunities for all rural dwellers. • Contribute to discussions aimed at developing a modern, innovative rural In the context of CAP reform, greater strategy, and pay particular attention to measures that will boost the rural emphasis will be placed on rural economy to the benefit of farming and non-farming rural dwellers alike.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Embracing cultural diversity When We Win Society Wins A thriving cultural, media and arts made significant strides in recent years For too long cultural diversity in Ireland sector is an important part of the quality and has been rewarded by widespread has been a source of conflict. It is in fact of life in any region. It is also a sign of acknowledgement that it is an equal an opportunity. The EU has long success. Culture also makes a major partner among these neighbouring cities supported cultural and linguistic diversity contribution to economic life and is a in cultural terms. We want to see more both in Ireland and across Europe; the significant source of employment in the active involvement in EU cultural recent enlargements being a prime advanced regions of the EU. initiatives for our other cities, including example of this. The SDLP has the best Capital cities in these islands, such as Derry, Lisburn and Newry, in order to record in promoting cultural diversity. In Dublin, Edinburgh and Cardiff, all have a encourage the development of our the Assembly, we have tabled a draft bill strong cultural dimension. Belfast has cultural life across the North. for the Irish language which would establish Irish and English as the official languages in the North, giving Irish speakers the right to have their language recognised in all public spheres, including the courts, education and employment. Sa chéad Pharlaimint eile, beidh muid ag tnúth le cur le cláir thacaíochta AE do chúrsaí cultúrtha agus d'éagsúlacht teangacha, chun maoiniú breise a aimsiú do thionscadail na Gaeilge. In the next Parliament, we will seek to expand EU support programmes for cultural and linguistic diversity, and to secure more funding for Irish language projects.
IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: • Support more active involvement in EU cultural initiatives for our cities, in order to encourage the development of our cultural life across the North. • Promote support for cultural diversity and the Irish language on “The SDLP has the best record in a statutory basis through adoption of the SDLP's draft bill for the Irish promoting cultural diversity” language.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Equality, human rights and social justice
The SDLP is committed to promoting equality, social justice and reconciliation, and to protecting human rights. These principles are not just slogans; they are a part of our founding philosophy. One of the reasons we've been such strong supporters of the European Union is its track record in upholding equality and human rights for all European citizens. EQUALITY FOR ALL The SDLP is proud to stand up for the rights of all in our society, regardless of sex, race, ethnic or social origin, language, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. Europe has often led the foundations for the development of Commissioner for gender equality. development of a rights-based democratic national measures to promote equality, As MEP, Alban Maginness will be culture here in Northern Ireland. and during the lifetime of the next proactive towards achieving equality and Evidence of this has been our Parliament we intend to build on the promoting anti-discrimination policies in sustained lobbying for a strong Bill of progress already made. order to improve the lives of older people Rights for Northern Ireland. The SDLP remains convinced that a Bill of Rights The SDLP will continue to work in the North. In line with the PES pledge, can support the common ground that tirelessly to make Northern Ireland a we are committed to enhancing the does exist in our society, and provide welcoming and safe place for migrant provision of care for the elderly, and will protections and principles upon which we workers. It is unacceptable that those who examine models similar to those already can agree despite our differences. On want a better life for themselves and their in place for child care with a view to such common ground we can build a truly families can feel threatened and developing a European strategy on elderly shared future. unwelcome in our society. The SDLP care. This is all the more important in light wants to see all workers respected as of our ageing population. Locally, the The European Charter of Fundamental equals and benefiting equally under the SDLP will continue to campaign for the Rights, when legally binding, will empower law. In a new and larger Europe, we in the appointment of a full-time, adequately citizens throughout Europe to challenge North are in a position to extend a hand of funded older person's Commissioner to any decision taken by EU institutions, or by friendship to our fellow European and ensure that the voice of older people is Member States implementing EU law, that external neighbours in an effort to heard and that they are involved in all they feel infringes their fundamental rights. encourage integration and shared society. policy-making decisions. To this end, we are hopeful of a strong We will encourage others to do likewise. UPHOLDING HUMAN RIGHTS Europe-wide ratification of the Lisbon Treaty which would give the necessary With our sister parties in the PES, we The North needs a strong voice in the legal force to the Charter. will lobby the other EU institutions to European Parliament to eliminate the gap create a women's rights charter to between political rhetoric and reality when it CHALLENGING RIGHTS ABUSE promote gender equality in economic and comes to the implementation of human The PES Group in the European political life, draft family friendly measures rights. The SDLP will continue to champion Parliament has made major progress in to enhance parental leave rights and call human rights at both the European and protecting children against sexual abuse for the establishment of a new local levels to advance the further and violence, including online. We will WHEN WE WIN, YOU WIN 21 amEuro.qxd:Layout 1 5/20/09 9:22 AM Page 21
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seek further assurances and measures to environment of both physical and emotional Minister for Social Development, Margaret protect our children including robust cross- deprivation and can die in relative isolation. Ritchie, has led the charge in tackling fuel border sharing of criminal records It is intolerable that many of our children poverty here by committing to a vision of information between Member States to live in poverty or on the edge of poverty eradicating fuel poverty for vulnerable ensure that sex offenders are not able to and are unable to access an adequate people and those who live in social housing gain employment with children by moving education. by 2010 and for other households by 2016. between EU countries. In the last Executive, the SDLP made In the Assembly, our MLAs have won The SDLP supports the ongoing EU child poverty a priority in the Programme unanimous political support for a motion on commitment and action to combat trafficking for Government, establishing the Children's rising energy costs, while our MPs have of women and children and to protect those Fund and other Executive Programme made similar representations in who have been trafficked. We are pleased Funds in support of child and family Westminster. We will continue to press to see that the UK has now ratified the services. We made sure that child poverty OFMDFM to deliver on the Executive's anti- Council of Europe Convention on Action was a key deprivation indicator and set up poverty commitments. It is not right that so against Trafficking in Human Beings. the office of Children's Commissioner. In little has been delivered, and urgent action However, continued monitoring is required doing this, we deliberately borrowed good is all the more needed given the current particularly within the current candidate examples from Europe and applied them economic crisis. countries and others which may wish to join locally. Today, several elements of the In Europe, Alban Maginness will take our the European Union in the future. SDLP's legacy have been rejected by the responsibilities just as seriously. Alongside ruling political parties. It is unacceptable our PES colleagues, he will work to ensure The SDLP believes the EU has that there is no longer a Children's Fund succeeded in overcoming the historic the National Action Plans for Inclusion, the and no clear budget for a Children's cornerstone of the EU Social Inclusion divisions and conflicts of Europe in large Strategy. part because of its inclusiveness and Strategy, demonstrate vigour and ambition respect for diversity. We have always Across the North, the SDLP has been in their aims and objectives. The Strategy appreciated European support for our work collaborating with community and church can only succeed if Member States place of peace-building in the North.The SDLP representatives to seriously tackle the the rights of poor and marginalised people will continue to raise awareness in Europe plight of poverty and social injustice. The at the centre of the Action Plans. of human rights abuses that took place in the North and will, in particular, seek IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: European support to bolster our calls for Ensure migrant workers and those from this island receive equal treatment at support at Westminster for a full public • judicial inquiry into the murder of Pat work and in society. Finucane. • Give support to a women's rights charter to promote gender equality in economic SETTING THE SOCIAL JUSTICE and political life, and call for the establishment of a new EU Commissioner for AGENDA gender equality. The denial of equality, fairness, and • Develop family friendly measures to enhance parental leave rights. social justice to many people in our society Seek support to draft an EU-wide strategy on elderly care, and continue to remains a major scandal that must be • confronted politically.Far too many of our campaign for the appointment of a full-time, adequately resourced older person's young people have their lives defined by Commissioner in the North. where they live or their parents' socio- • Seek political support for a strong Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland. economic status, dictating the life Profile in Europe Northern Irish human rights issues, including the need for a full opportunities open to them. Families are • struggling to put food on the table, while a judicial review into the murder of Pat Finucane. worrying proportion of our elderly • Secure support at EU level to ensure real delivery locally on anti-poverty measures. population find themselves in an
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Security and fighting crime When We Win the Community Wins The progressive elimination of border communities for everybody. It's been services join, share and engage with control within the EU has considerably 10 years since the Patten Commission other key service providers and planners facilitated the free movement of recommended sweeping changes to under devolved policy making and European citizens, but has also made it policing in the North. The SDLP budget planning. easier for criminals to operate steadfastly lent its support to ensure The devolution of justice and policing transnationally. The fight against the Patten recommendations were powers to the Assembly will be a further organised crime is one of the EU's top implemented, and the reward has been new beginning to policing. Without it we priorities, and the SDLP will build on the that our community is now closer to will not have the completion of the Good work that has been done in recent years benefiting from a truly representative Friday Agreement or Patten. We should to develop EU anti-organised crime, and fully accountable police service. make it happen as soon as possible. anti-terrorist and anti-smuggling policies We will continue our work on the Our Socialist colleagues in Europe are so that the agencies in both parts of Policing Board to keep delivering with us to ensure that this aspect of the Ireland can work effectively with their change. Agreement is implemented fairly and counterparts in Europe. The link between organised crime and swiftly. An effective response is not feasible the paramilitaries is very clear. They are Just as the transfer of justice must without the continuous monitoring and defying the democratic will of the people have a strong North-South dimension smooth exchange of information among of Ireland and severely damaging our agreed upfront, there should be further the police and judicial authorities of the society. Their racketeering is stunting the initiatives around North-South Member States. This must occur within development of communities. Their the framework of the competent involvement in drug-dealing is cutting cooperation on criminal justice and international and European institutions, young lives short and terrorising older policing through, for example, the such as Europol and Eurojust, and the people. creation of an all-Ireland Criminal Assets Bureau, modelled on the European Judicial Network. We At present, the real and active threat to Criminal Assets Bureau in the South, to welcome the decision officially police personnel, to peace and deprive criminals of their wrongful gains registering Europol as an EU agency democracy, is coming from so-called across the island. This issue has with Community financing from January dissident republicans. Parties in the become more acute with the end of the 2010, since this will go hand in hand Assembly cannot allow differences and ARA as an independent agency and the with closer involvement of the European difficulties around the devolution of primacy of SOCA. Parliament in its capacity as budgetary justice and policing to be exploited for authority. these groups' sinister purposes. We cannot simply accept the benefits Locally, the SDLP is determined to Devolution can achieve more and of Europe without taking on our combat crime and ensure safer perform better if policing and justice responsibilities. The SDLP's experience in reforming the police and law enforcement, and creating accountability IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: in Northern Ireland will be of great value • Seek to maximise existing instruments such as the EU Commission Forum on as the European Union addresses the the Prevention of Organised Crime and the EU Crime Prevention Network. challenges of organised crime, drugs smuggling, and dealing with terrorism • Use the Parliament's scrutiny role to encourage increased effectiveness and within the rule of law and without democratic accountability of Europol and Eurojust. compromising fundamental freedoms.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Europe in the wider world The EU is the greatest example of conflict resolution in history and the greatest opportunity for international development in the future. The SDLP wants to see the EU continue as a frontrunner in advancing peace and sustainable social and economic development worldwide. We do not believe simply in a Europe of economies, but in a Europe of values and a Europe of influence - a real challenge to poverty, disease and war. The SDLP has long advocated international development issues at all levels of government. In the Assembly, SDLP representatives founded and chair an All Party Group on International This can only spell disaster for those seeds and medicines, and see that the Development, aimed at raising awareness countries whose people's prospects rely of and giving practical help to developing environment and natural resources are on foreign aid. countries. At Westminster, our MPs have considered as 'economic goods' that taken a strong stance on issues including We would argue that building up the should be economically exploited, rather the Iraq war, humanitarian relief for Gaza economies of de veloping countries is not than 'common goods' that should be and cluster munitions, which gained just a moral imperative, it is in all our protected. The SDLP considers it cross-party support and was quickly interests as the European example has imperative that EU trade policy does not followed by a decision by the British clearly proven by boosting all the undermine the aims of existing strategies government to support a ban on cluster economies of the Member States, to which the EU is committed, including bombs. In local Councils around the including our own. the Millennium Development Goals and the Kyoto Protocol. North, SDLP Councillors have won WORKING FOR GLOBAL TRADE support for Fair Trade and international JUSTICE The SDLP will therefore work towards a solidarity motions. much more progressive EU trade policy Trade is much more than the exchange that prioritises development, The next five years of the European of goods and services. It has an impact on environmental sustainability, core labour Parliament coincide with the lead up to the every area of social life, and a social standards and human rights objectives, 2015 deadline for achieving the UN's Europe must work for global trade justice. Millennium Development Goals. The EU especially with regard to the world's EU trade policy is negatively impacting must keep its promise to increase its poorest countries. Trade policy would also developing countries as it continues to collective aid to 0.7% of Gross National benefit from being made more open and push for trade agreements which are Income by 2015 to achieve the Millennium democratic, to include much greater harmful to the interests of developing Development Goals and meet its sharing of information and real countries and those living in poverty. commitments to improve the quality of its participation by civil society. This would Under the Global Europe strategy, the EU aid. This will be extremely challenging, be made possible under the Lisbon is proposing further opening of developing since faced with the current economic Treaty, which proposes giving the country markets and additional rules that crisis, many Member State governments European Parliament an expanded role in will restrict access to technology, including are reviewing their external aid budgets. shaping EU trade policy.
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D'iarr SDLP ar Fheidhmeannas is aimed at helping African farmers gain Albania and Turkey. We believe Thuaisceart na hÉireann ceannach Cóir- access to seeds and fertilisers in order to consolidating these fledgling democracies Thrádála a chur chun cinn, i ngach increase their productivity. Although a and promoting human rights are in the cinneadh sólathair. Leanfaidh muid leis an welcome development, the SDLP interests of all Europeans, as we all have obair chun torthaí Cóir-Thrádála a considers such short term investments can a stake in achieving secure democracy thabhairt chun cinn taobh istigh dár n- only succeed if they are supported by and stability throughout the entire eacnamaíocht féin agus trasna na hEorpa, increased aid flows from developed continent of Europe. mar shampla, beidh muid ag iarraidh ar an countries. This is the key to achieving food Further eastward enlargements bring Choimisiún dóigheanna a mholadh chun security in the long term. EU-Russia relations into play, particularly feasacht na dtomhaltóirí a spreagadh ar FURTHER EXPANSION OF THE important in light of energy security issues. torthaí Cóir-Thrádála. As ucht an ghnímh EU'S BORDERS The impact of the Russia/Ukraine gas seo, cuireann muid forbairt inbhuanaithe crisis once again brings home how The continuation of the accession chun tosaigh agus tá muid ag iarraidh pá important it is for the EU to have stable process for Western Balkan states and for atá ceart agus cóir a dheimhniú sa and predictable relationships with its Turkey will be a key priority over the domhan atá i béal a forbartha. neighbours. coming Parliamentary term. The The SDLP has called on the NI enlargement-friendly Swedish will be SUPPORTING PEACE AND Executive to advance Fair Trade aiming at successfully closing Croatia's purchasing in all procurement decisions. DEMOCRACY negotiations by the end of their Presidency We will continue working to promote the As stated, the EU stands as a powerful in December, and at opening several new expansion of Fair Trade products within example of conflict resolution in the world. chapters with Turkey, depending on the our own economy and across Europe by, We therefore oppose any attempted progress made with each country. As for example, encouraging the Commission militarization of the European Union. The Turkey's accession talks continue, the to adopt measures aimed at raising EU is unique because it depends solely on SDLP will underline the need to ensure the consumer awareness of Fair Trade the rule of law, and has no armed forces. Turkish authorities fully comply with products. By doing so, we promote Its strength lies in its example, its international human and civil rights sustainable development and help diplomacy, its development policy and its standards, and make swift progress in the guarantee decent wages for those in the trade policy, not in its military resources. area of freedom of speech. developing world. However, to be effective in supporting Membership talks with Macedonia could peace, there is a clear need for the EU to RESPONSIBLE FOOD AND be opened towards the end of the year, have a more coherent foreign policy AGRICULTURAL POLICIES and a consensus on a reply to the capacity. This should not extend to Agriculture plays an important part in requests for candidate status from Albania supplanting the independent foreign affairs trade and development strategies. The and Montenegro will have to be found. A policy of member countries. However, it SDLP has called for a fair deal for local membership application from Iceland is must enable the EU to increase its farmers during the ongoing reform of the imminent, in light of the announcement leverage in a global situation where the CAP. Similarly, CAP reform is an that its Parliament is to vote on whether to voice of peace can barely be heard above opportunity to address the global food begin membership talks with the EU. the racket of war. crisis and tackle the inherently unfair All this has a bearing on existing The SDLP consistently voted against current situation whereby in Africa alone, Member States since each enlargement the Iraq war in Westminster and in the the number of people vulnerable to hunger brings with it new neighbours on Europe's European Parliament, mirroring the has now reached 400 million. borders and the challenge of integrating widespread opposition of the European An EU deal which will divert €1 billion new members into the EU. The SDLP and public to the invasion. With the withdrawal over three years in unused European farm the PES strongly support EU efforts to of British troops now having taken place subsidies to help tackle the global food reconstruct countries including Croatia, and the planned withdrawal of US troops price crisis - the so-called 'Food Facility' - Macedonia, Bosnia, Serbia-Montenegro, by 2011, it is worth asking what alternative
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outcomes might have been possible had the EU benefited from a well-developed IN EUROPE THE SDLP WILL: foreign policy position and been able to • Build support to maintain but ultimately to increase EU support, aid and fair trade exert greater influence to counter the US- to developing countries. led approach. • Call for an urgent rethink of EU trade policy to ensure that it prioritises The SDLP and its sister parties in the development, environmental sustainability, core labour standards, and human PES remain committed to ensuring the rights objectives, especially with regard to the world's poorest countries. Iraqi people are supported on the long journey towards full democracy that lies • Engage with decision-makers in the other EU institutions to achieve long term ahead of them. food security in the developing world through increased aid flows, and in the meantime, provide democratic scrutiny of European aid spend, including the We want to see the EU play a stronger €1 billion Food Facility. role in securing peace and protecting human rights in the Middle East, securing • Build strong working relations between the EU and the Obama administration, to a peaceful, two-state solution.Europe the benefit of our own region, the island as a whole and the wider international must equally play an honourable role on community. the world stage and in the Middle East in • Encourage proportionate and appropriate Europe-wide offers of resettlement to particular to counter the damage from the former Guantánamo inmates. historically unbalanced American role. To achieve these, there is further merit in • In the interests of democracy and stability, lend continued support for further EU calling for the EU to have a coherent enlargement that upholds the principles of human rights and equality for all. foreign policy capacity. • Gather support for the development of an effective EU strategy on conflict The SDLP has long considered that this prevention. region of Ireland has a role to play as a Léireofar Tuaisceart na hÉireann mar shuíomh cuí do shaoráid idirnaisiúnta ina model of conflict transformation for regions • gcuirfear taighde, comhairle agus saineolas ar fáil ar réiteach coimhlinte. still in conflict. We're therefore pleased the Commission's NI Task Force report • Profile Northern Ireland as a fitting location for an international facility providing endorses the development of a facility here research, advice and expertise on conflict resolution. to provide research and advice on conflict resolution. This is an opportunity to much to be gained in sharing the further progress at the international level internationally profile positive experiences expertise that exists within our shores. on key concerns including pressing US of the peace process. THEOBAMA ADMINISTRATION representatives to ensure the rights of Within the context of the ongoing policy 'undocumented' Irish people living and dialogue between the EU and countries The new European Parliament term of working in America are protected. such as China, Russia and the Western office coincides with that of a new US Further, we will seek agreement among Balkan region, there lies potential to draw administration.This is opportune and the North's political parties to join with the attention to the specific contribution of the should allow for good working relations to Taoiseach and other EU leaders in PEACE programmes here to social and develop between the new Parliament and offering to accept Guantánamo detainees economic development. In the EU President Obama and his staff. Key for resettlement in Northern Ireland. context, we would support cooperation issues are likely to be debt relief and fair Northern Irish people are known for their and exchanges between the North and trade, as well as international peace commitment to global justice and third countries specifically on peace and keeping. democracy, and political leadership at reconciliation issues as promoted under Where possible, the SDLP will make regional, national and European levels the PEACE programmes, since there is best use of this new relationship to make should reflect that commitment.
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SDLP European Manifesto 2009 Alban's Top 10 for Europe IF YOU ELECT ME AS YOUR MEP ON THURSDAY 4 JUNE, I WILL: • Through my membership of the influential PES group, help create more jobs and ensure economic recovery in our region. • Protect our workers' rights and interests by ensuring that positive initiatives in other EU regions are implemented here - including wage subsidy schemes and new training opportunities. • Use European measures and new ideas to ensure we champion and lead on innovation, and use this as a platform for our future economic development. • Bring jobs to rural communities, including through green technologies. Push for a sustainable future for rural dwellers by protecting vital services and addressing infrastructure needs. • Campaign for a Commissioner for small and medium sized enterprises, who will eliminate red tape and champion the needs of local businesses at the heart of EU decision-making. • Stand strong for a fair deal for our farmers during negotiations on CAP reform, and a real future for our fishermen and coastal communities. • Demand the EU lives up to the promises of increased aid, and delivers on the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. • Develop this region's renewables industry, help drive down energy costs and support an urgent and ambitious global climate change policy. • Use Europe as a platform to uphold the SDLP's founding principles of equality, human rights, social justice and reconciliation in Ireland and throughout the world. • Just as John Hume championed a “Europe of the regions”, campaign for a new regional policy for the 21st century that allows all regions to better respond to today’s difficult economic environment.
WHEN WE WIN, YOU WIN 27 amEuro.qxd:Layout 1 5/20/09 9:22 AM Page 27 WO W EN FISH FAR BUS CO PE WO W EN FISH FAR WO W EN FISH Published by Gerry Cosgrove, Election Agent, 121 Ormeau Road, Belfast BT7 1SH SDLP FAR
For further information, contact SDLP Headquarters: BUS 121 Ormeau Road, Belfast BT7 1SH SDLP Telephone: +44 (0)28 9024 7700 CO Email: [email protected] Web: www.albanforeurope.eu PE Blog: www.maginnessisgoodforyou.eu WO W EN FISH