Irish Bishops plead for ‘informed
voting’ in EU elections
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| Flag of the European Union |
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ireland releases a
statement ahead of European elections this week, reminding voters of the EU’s
Christian heritage.
By John Waters
With European Parliament elections taking place from 23-26
May, the Catholic Bishops of Ireland are highlighting the Christian values
which motivated the founding of the European Union.
In a statement released on Monday, Irish Bishops also warn
voters of the rise of populism and address the Irish concerns over Brexit.
In addition to members of the European Parliament, the
election will also see the appointment of a new President of the European
Commission, with 6 candidates in the running for the position.
Highlighting both the right and privilege of each citizen to
exercise their vote, the Irish Bishops note the potentially wide-reaching effects
of the elections, saying “Politics is local; it is also regional, national,
European and international. What is decided by MEPs in the European Parliament
affects us all here on the island of Ireland. Similarly, our vote and our
elected representatives in Europe can influence debates and decisions taken at
EU level, which often have the potential to contribute to development and peace
in the wider world.”
Brexit uncertainty
A plea for informed voting follows, with voters challenged
to develop a knowledge and understanding of the EU Parliament and other
European institutions, particularly with regard to the potential impact of
Brexit.
Acknowledging the fact that the Brexit issue evokes strong
emotions on all sides of the argument, the Bishops invite voters to look
“honestly and critically at where the European Union – and its Member States –
have fallen short in realising its fundamental values, let us not forget to
appreciate the historic and significant achievements of the European project.”
European project
The statement ends with a call to not disengage from the
European project and suggesting that it is now more important than ever that
the Irish people take part in these elections and the decisions which could
well shape the future of both their country and the European Union itself.
The Irish Bishops invoke not only their own Christian
heritage but also that of the European Union in order to illustrate their
point.
“In looking to the future of Europe with hope, we remember
the Irish missionary, Saint Columbanus, who has been described as ‘Ireland’s
first European’. We also remember Edith Stein (Saint Teresa Benedicta of the
Cross), co-patroness of Europe, who suffered and died as a result of war in
Europe. We hope never to see such horror in Europe again. The European
project, its institutions and its political method, are key to promoting and
consolidating a lasting peace.
“On the eve of the European Parliament elections, we
continue to pray through the intercession of Saint Columbanus and Saint Teresa
for wisdom and right judgement for our political and civic leaders in our own
country, in Europe, and throughout the world.”
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