Offaly voices heard in Brussels as Cowen hosts local delegation

Fianna Fáil MEP for Midlands North-West, Barry Cowen, this week welcomed a group of friends and supporters from County Offaly to Brussels for a visit centred around the European Parliament.

The delegation, made up of community members, long-time supporters and campaign volunteers, began their programme with a guided tour of the European Parliament, where they learned about the legislative process and the role MEPs play in shaping EU policy.

The visit also included a stop at the Parlamentarium – the Parliament’s interactive visitor centre – which traces the history and development of the EU and explains the functions of its key institutions, including the European Commission and Council.

The centrepiece of the visit was a meeting with Cowen, who offered a comprehensive overview of his current work in Parliament. He focused in particular on his contributions to the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, the International Trade Committee and the Special Committee on Housing. He spoke candidly about the challenges and opportunities facing Ireland in each of these areas and sought feedback from the group.

During his presentation, Barry reiterated his determination to make meaningful progress on the issues he had prioritised during his 2024 European election campaign – including the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy, strengthening trade links and ensuring housing and planning legislation meets the needs of both rural and urban areas.

The visit concluded on a high note, with many participants expressing appreciation for the chance to see the European Parliament up close and to better understand how EU decisions impact life at home in Offaly and across Ireland.

“As Offaly’s first MEP, it was great to welcome our own from the Faithful County to Brussels.

“It’s great to be able to give back by showing them the work we’re doing here and why it matters.

“I’ve said from day one that I would follow through on the commitments I made during the campaign – whether that’s on agriculture, trade, housing or rural infrastructure. This visit was a chance to show how that work is progressing and to hear the thoughts and concerns of those I represent.”

“Too often, Europe feels distant from local communities. But the truth is, decisions made here in Brussels have a real and lasting impact on counties like Offaly," MEP Cowen said.