MEP (Independent) for Munster since 1989, President of European Liberal Group
This Parliament's contribution? Examples - provided £300,000 for Clonmel during floods; helped Aughinish Alumina/Alcan to maintain exemption from high excise tax on heavy-duty fuel
Own proudest achievement? The first Irish person to be elected to leadership of a European political group . . . and defined for Parliament that the question for the Commission was accountability
Frustration? Travel to Strasbourg
Absences from sessions: 43
Motions for resolution: 55
Reports: five (plus two contributions) Questions: 22
Debates: 96
Teacher's note: Star performer with genuine Euro perspective if a mite over-serious. Clinched status by keeping his eye on the Commission ball and defining the agenda. Good committee worker, makes considered contributions on economic issues
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