Boundary changes to European constituencies
Seán Kelly MEP (Ireland South) has described the Electoral Commission’s decision, to transfer Laois and Offaly from the Ireland South constituency to the Midlands-North-West, as “bittersweet”, but “logical, considering the constituency’s recent history and location of the counties”.
Last month, Ireland was officially allocated an additional MEP seat in the upcoming European Parliament elections in June of next year. The Midlands-North-West Constituency, now including Laois and Offaly, will now become a five-seat constituency following the recommendation of An Coimisiún Toghcháin.
“When you look at it, Ireland really is a European success story, transformed by the opportunities afforded by the EU. Evolving from a benefactor to a contributor, and considering the implications of Brexit as well as population growth, it was undeniable that Ireland should have an additional MEP,” said MEP Kelly.
“These adjustments are necessary due to changes in population figures, as the current allocation of seats in the Parliament no longer aligns with the Treaty provisions. Ireland's population has grown at a faster pace than other EU Member States, therefore in some ways it's a simple calculation that an increase in citizens warrants an increase in MEPs”, said Mr Kelly.
“Making the Midlands-North-West constituency a five seater is a positive step for better representation of rural voices in Europe, and the redistricting is a fitting move.
“Having had the privilege of serving and getting to know the people of Laois and Offaly over the last term, this change is bittersweet, but I hope this adjustment acknowledges and addresses specific challenges and opportunities of communities in Laois and Offaly. Representation of the citizens is the most important thing. In this case, I believe the right decision was made,” Mr Kelly underlined.
Kelly hopes the re-districting gives more weight to the needs of rural Ireland, ensuring a fairer distribution equitable distribution of attention and resources.