Hayes elected EPP Deputy Spokesperson on Economic Affairs

Brian Hayes MEP has been elected Deputy spokesperson for the European People’s Party (EPP) in the European Parliament on Economic Affairs for a two and a half year term, securing a significant post for Ireland on one of Parliament's most high-profile committees. The Fine Gael MEP will now play a leading role in influencing and coordinating the work of the EPP, the largest political grouping in parliament, with regard to the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee (ECON) in the European Parliament.

The election in Strasbourg last night comes at a critical time for Ireland in the context of economic affairs, according to Mr Hayes: "For Ireland, financial services and economic governance is a priority area when it comes to EU legislation. Dublin is one of the most attractive financial services locations in the EU and could become a prime location for international banks in the wake of Brexit. Irish policymakers need to remain active in economic policymaking in Brussels at this crucial moment. That is why I am delighted to have been entrusted with this role by my EPP colleagues on the Economic Committee.

“Europe still faces major economic risks. We need to see quick solutions for the problems faced by Italian banks in order to prevent spill over effects for the rest of Europe. It is equally crucial that we boost investment all over Europe and begin to target large-scale infrastructure projects - this is the vital way that we can really improve our jobs and growth figures.

“I look forward to the challenge of bringing together all EPP MEP colleagues on the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee and working with them to find solutions for Europe’s economic problems. I look forward to working closely with our EPP ECON lead spokesperson Burkhard Balz in coordinating the work of our increasingly busy committee.

"I will continue to be a strong voice for my constituency of Dublin and for Ireland over the next two and a half years as Deputy Spokesman of ECON," Mr Hayes said today.