Irish MEPs have sixth worst attendance record in Europe

The attendance records of Irish MEPs are among the poorest in the European Parliament, according to an analysis of sign-in sheets.

The study of the attendance sheet that must be signed by MEPs at each sitting of the parliament in Strasbourg shows that Ireland's 13 representatives turn up for 88% of debates.

While this may seem high, it actually leaves Irish MEPs with the the sixth worst attendance record of the 25 member states.

Fianna Fáil MEP Sean O'Neachtain has the best record of the Irish MEPs with 95% attendance.

His constituency colleague, independent MEP Marian Harkin, has the worst record of all the Irish members, turning up just 74% of the time.