I had the pleasure of travelling to Ireland for two days to meet the French people living on the Green Isle, with political meetings, field visits and civic exchanges. It was a packed programme, reflecting the vitality of our community in Dublin and beyond!
As soon as I arrived, I had a chance to talk to Barry Ward, a senator and well-informed French-speaker in the Irish Parliament. Against a backdrop of geopolitical instability, our discussions focused on Ireland's place in the European Union and its relations with the United States. One thing is clear: more than ever, France is Ireland's closest European partner.
At the Residence de France, I met many French people living in Ireland who had come to share their experiences and their attachment to our country. Behind each expatriate's story, I heard the same desire: to stay connected to France and contribute to its influence. Thank you to the embassy team for organising this wonderful reception.
The next day, we headed for County Kildare, an hour's drive from Dublin, to visit the Hortland Solar Farm site, a solar farm operated by the French company Neoen. This exemplary project avoids the emission of 8,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year. It embodies the best that the energy transition can produce: clean, local and sustainable energy from a French company committed to Europe.
From Dublin, I was also able to video-conference with the FLAM associations in Ireland. Their work is essential: keeping the French language alive, passing on our culture and maintaining the link with the Republic, from the earliest age. Thank you to all the teams, volunteers and teachers, for their daily commitment.
In the early hours of the morning, I met up with the French in Ireland over coffee for a citizens' breakfast. In the presence of your advisers for the French abroad, Saïda Khemira and Benoît Marin Cudraz, we discussed the major issues of the day: pension reform, consular procedures, taxation, Europe and more. It was a warm and useful moment, which enabled me to take your concerns back to Paris.
Finally, I ended my visit with a discussion with your advisers for French citizens abroad, Saïda Khemira and Benoit Marin Cudraz. They play a vital role in relaying your needs and supporting your projects.
I would like to thank them for the quality of our discussions and for their constant commitment. I would also like to thank everyone I have met for their warm welcome and sincerity. This direct link with you is at the heart of my mandate, to better represent you and better carry your voice to the National Assembly.
