Home Grace O'SULLIVAN

As a key regulator of our climate and a vulnerable place of unique biodiversity, the protection of the Arctic from human encroachment is vital. I abstained in the vote on this report on the region which, despite good language achieved by our Group on protection of the environment, ultimately focused excessively on confrontational language on defence, security and exploitation. The Arctic must not become an area of resource extraction and geopolitical conflict if we are to peacefully combat the current climate crisis and protect life in the region.

I was pleased to join my colleagues voting in favour of the creation of this new delegation, which will join an important body for oversight of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Close cooperation and dialogue are crucial for navigating our post-Brexit relationship with the UK.