Strive Notes

I just got in from attending a meeting of the Isle of Man Euroclub.  The keynote speaker Caroline Jackson gave us an insight into how the European Parliament works (and often doesn’t).  Jackson has been described as the most powerful woman in Tory politics, and I can see why.  What a refreshingly frank speaker! In an absolutely BS-free half hour Jackson gave her views about the EU past and present and all the changes that are underway with the recent expansion.  She’s been an MEP since 1984, but has worked at the European Parliament since 1974…and yet she doesn’t seem too cynical. I’d say, her long experience has rendered her realistic and pragmatic. Two qualities that would qualities that would benefit any politician.

She answered 10 questions from the floor ranging from queries about specific environmental legislation to the broadest of policy concerns…should Britain remain in Europe?  The message that I took away is this.  The European Union was one the greatest achievements of the 20th Century.  It is not without its problems but overall the benefits of the union outweigh its drawbacks. 

The Euroclub is run by the Isle of Man government’s external relations section as part of its efforts to raise awareness of the Island’s relations with the EU. It’s the second meeting I’ve been to, and I’m hooked.  What a great way for people in government and in private industry to get together to learn about and discuss European issues.  It’s one of the many benefits doing business in the Isle of Man.

(ASIDE:  I found several mentions of Caroline Jackson on Technorati.  Here are a couple of recent ones:  Fortress EU, and  Iain Dale’s Diary.)

Filed under: public relations