Cowen to hold "Why Europe Matters" Athlone meeting

Barry Cowen TD, Fianna Fáil candidate in the Midlands North West European constituency, is hosting a public meeting on the topic of 'Why Europe Matters' in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel, Athlone this Wednesday night, April 10.

The meeting, which gets underway at 8pm, will see Deputy Cowen joined by specialist guest speakers to discuss his three main priorities: Sustainability in Food Production, Energy Security and Protecting our Tax regime whilst supporting innovation.

The first in a series of public meetings, which all are welcome to attend, will be chaired by Fianna Fáil TD for Longford / Westmeath, Robert Troy.

Speaking about his candidacy, Deputy Cowen said: “Having just been canvassing in Athlone this past weekend, it is clear people want a better understanding of why Europe Matters to everyday life here. This meeting will address just that and I invite and encourage all to come and engage.

“There are many challenges facing communities in Westmeath, Roscommon and across the constituency regarding cost of living, food and energy prices, sustainability and employment. I want to engage with the local community to prove that I am well placed to champion these issues at a European level.

“I have a history of fighting hard for the interests of my constituents in Laois / Offaly as a public representative and have seen first hand the effect EU policies can have on employment and our way of life.

“Therefore it is crucial we elect experienced and tough negotiators to get the best deals possible for Westmeath, Roscommon and the other counties in the Midlands North West constituency.”

Deputy Cowen added: “More and more, Europe - through its common policies and laws - is having a greater impact on the lives of our citizens. We need to be vigilant to make sure that whatever is decided in Brussels is in the best interests of our people and at the same time maximise the benefit of our membership for all our citizens.”