PES President Sergei Stanishev today announced the firm support of the European socialist family for the Irish Labour party in their election campaign.

Sergei Stanishev addressed Irish people who will vote this Friday:

‘I don’t need to remind the Irish people how important these elections are. They have seen their effect that political decision making can have on their country. Five years ago the Irish economy was reeling after the banking collapse. As part of the government, Labour has been instrumental in returning to a strong economy, with real effects for the Irish people. As part of the government Labour have introduced marriage equality and paid paternity leaves and created 135 000 new jobs.’

‘When they are returned to government, Labour will continue standing up for working people, by creating new jobs, reducing the tax burden for low and middle earners and transforming the minimum wage, into a living wage.’

‘Labour is the party which stands up for women. They recognize that it is now time to bring Ireland into line with other European countries by giving women their bodily autonomy and legalizing abortion. Labour will hold a referendum to repeal the 8th amendment. They will also cap childcare costs, ensuring that women can be full members of the labour market. I urge voters in Ireland to support the Labour Party this Friday.’

Party of European Socialists (PES)
http://www.pes.eu/