The Irish Government has approved the EU’s decision to introduce proxy voting which will allow MEPs to delegate their voting rights during pregnancy and after giving birth, Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh has said.
The change will allow female MEPs to entrust their vote to another MEP of their choice for up to three months before their expected due date and up to six months after giving birth. The reform will support women in continuing to participate in political life while managing pregnancy, childbirth and the early months of parenthood.
MEP Maria Walsh said:
“We are finally one step closer to making the European Parliament a more family-friendly and attractive workplace for women and young families. I’m proud that Ireland is among the first EU countries to back these new changes which will allow female MEPs to delegate their vote during maternity leave.
“While it is unlikely I will benefit from the new voting system myself, I know first-hand the difference it will make to pregnant MEPs and young mothers in the future. As it currently stands, any vote I am unable to attend in person due to medical advice or caring for my new child will be marked as a missed vote. This is an outdated system which does not take into account the needs of mothers or the rights of constituents to be fully represented.
“However, for the women and families who come after me, they should not have to choose between having a family and representing the people who elected them. This is about making sure that a woman who is elected to the European Parliament can continue to fulfil her democratic mandate while also taking the time she needs during pregnancy and after giving birth.
“We need more women in politics, but we also need political institutions that work for women and families once they get there. I hope the new voting system is a signal to young women that there is a place for you and your family in the European Parliament, and that in turn we see more women running for political office.
“Pregnancy and parenthood should never be barriers to political participation.
“This change recognises that being an elected representative and being a parent are not mutually exclusive. It is a practical step that will make the European Parliament more inclusive and more reflective of modern family life.
“I want to thank everyone who has worked to get this reform to this point, in particular President Roberta Metsola, who is truly dedicated to making the Parliament a more inclusive and family friendly environment.
“While this will not change anything for me personally, I hope it will make a real difference for the next generation of women entering politics.”