The EU elections on Friday are of global significance. How you use your vote in Galway sends a signal to the world.

If you are concerned about the ongoing genocide in Gaza, I ask you to vote Number 1 for Senator Pauline O'Reilly as the Midlands–North-West MEP. Last month, she wrote a joint letter With MEPs Ciarán Cuffe and Grace O'Sullivan urging President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to take action to protect civilians. Since the, von der Leyen has taken no action, and continues to support Israel.

Ursula von der Leyen is seeking re-election President of the EU Commission, the most powerful political role in the EU. She does so with the support of the European People's Party, to which Fine Gael belongs. If you vote for Maria Walsh or Nina Carberry, you are voting for Ursula von der Leyen having a second term in the most powerful political role in the EU. Many people believe her promise of the EU’s "unconditional support" to Israel exceeded her responsibilities as President of the Commission and was inappropriate.

Since then the ICJ has said the claim of genocide in Gaza is plausible.

Ireland is committed to peace in the Middle East through immediate ceasefires on both sides and work towards two state solution. The government recognise Israel and Palestine and want both sides to cease hostilities. I condemn Hamas utterly.

My belief is that reelecting Ursula Von Der Leyen as President of the EU Commission is not consistent with the aim of peace. If you agree, I ask you to carefully consider how best to use your vote.