A Limerick native, Paul Gavan has served as a senator since 2016. He is a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and is also the Sinn Féin Seanad spokesperson for education and workers' rights.

The main issue is that we have to work to create an EU that is centred on true partnership. For too long the EU has moved in the wrong direction. It’s time for a positive refocus on the things that really matter to ordinary workers, families, and communities. I’ve spent most of my adult life fighting for improvements in workers’ rights. Improved pay, conditions, opportunities, and living standards for working people are very important too.

As part of a strong Sinn Féin team, I want to help put fairness for workers at the centre of the political agenda in the European Parliament. The European Union plays a significant role in determining workers’ rights. Now is the time for MEPs who will push for workers’ rights fit for the 21st century.

Policy platforms that are in the best interests of workers and families are the main thing. We have good relationships with various MEPs and groups across Europe. For me, it’s about building progressive alliances for real change and to collaborate constructively on challenges such as climate change. We will join with the political grouping most closely aligned with our policies and which allows us to best represent ordinary people. Our job is to stand up for Ireland. Our priority is improving life for workers and families.

Now more than ever, Ireland needs strong representation in the European Parliament. I will be an MEP who stands up for you. I will work night and day for you. I will be available to you and won’t go missing in Brussels for five years. My priorities are the things that really matter to you – affordable housing, access to healthcare, real action on the cost of living, working for a better deal for our rural, agricultural and coastal communities. As the father of three adult children, who are already talking about emigrating, I am passionate about creating a future where our young people can build a good and prosperous life at home in Ireland instead being forced to seek opportunity abroad. I’ll be a strong voice for change.