Greens challenged on fisheries vote

THE European Parliament recently approved a proposal by Sean Ó Neachtain, MEP, to support the present status of the Irish Box for a period of ten years.

This proposal was approved by 344 votes in favour with 108 votes against.

One would normally think that such a proposal would command the support of all Irish MEPs.

But I have to express my disappointment and anger at the fact that two Green Irish MEPs, Patricia McKenna and Nuala Ahern, both abstained on this vote.

The Green Party in Ireland appear to be constant critics of the Government's policies on many fisheries matters.

I believe it is time that the Green MEPs explained why they abstained on this vote notwithstanding the fact that all other Irish MEPs who voted on this matter declared in favour of this proposal.

It even commanded the support of Unionist MEPs Jim Nicholson and Ian Paisley.

The fishing communities in Ireland have a right to know who is helping us in Europe at this critical time. Always judge who your friends are when the chips are down.

Cllr Enda Bonner,

Dungloe,

Co Donegal