Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme

Patrick Jordan

B.A (Hons) in Media and Public Relations 2014

Table of Contents

Plagiarism Declaration ………………………………… IV

List of tables……………………………………………. V

Glossary………………………………………………… VI

Acknowledgements……………………………………. VII Abstract………………………………………………… VIII

Chapter 1 Research objectives………………………… 1

Chapter 2. Introduction………………………………... 2

Chapter 3. Research Methodology…………………. 4

3.1 Introduction………………………………………………… 4

3.2 Secondary Research………………………………………… 4

3.2.1 Literature review………………………………… 4

3.3 Primary Research…………………………………………… 5

3.3.1 Qualitative Research ……………………………… 5

3.3.1.1 Interviews ………………………………… 5

3.3.1.1.1 Interview One: Liam Aylward…….6

3.3.1.1.2 Interview Two: Seamus O’ Brien….6

3.3.1.2 Focus Group…………………………………. 7

3.3.2 Quantitative Research……………………………… 8

3.3.2.1 Questionnaire……………………………… 8

3.4 Limitations…………………………………………………….. 10

3.5 Timeline………………………………………………………… 10

Chapter 4. Literature Review………………………… 11

4.1 Introduction……………………………………………………… 11

4.2 Perception………………………………………………………… 12

4.3 European Parliament…………………………………………… 13

4.4 Carlow’s Rural Population……………………………………… 14

4.5 Tullow Macra Na Feirme……………………………………….. 15

4.6 Conclusion……………………………………………………….. 16

Chapter 5. Findings…………………………………...17

5.1 Introduction……………………………………………………… 17

5.2 Questionnaire…………………………………………………… 18

5.3 Summary of Interview one: Liam Aylward M.E.P…………… 25

5.4 Summary of Interview two: Seamus O’Brien…………………. 27

5.5 Focus Group: Tullow Macra Na Feirme………………………. 28

Chapter 6. Analysis of Findings……………………… 30

6.1 Introduction…………………………………………………….. 30

6.2 To establish what is meant by perception……………………. 30

6.3 To increase understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament………………………………………….…………… 31

6.4 To investigate how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland…………………………………………………………… 32

6.5 To investigate the perception of the European Parliament among the membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme……………………………………… 33

6.6 Conclusion………………………………………………….. 34

Chapter 7. Conclusions………………………………… 35

Chapter 8. Recommendations…………………………… 37

8.1 Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A need to educate members on the European Union institutions………………………………………………………………… 37

8. 2 More Media Coverage of the European Parliament……………… 37

8.3 Change of Electoral system…………………………………………… 38

Chapter 9. Bibliography………………………………….. 39

Chapter 10 Appendices…………………………………….41

10.1 Email to Liam Aylward ………………………………………………. 41

10.2 Questions for Liam Aylward M.E.P ………………………………….42

10.3 Questions for Seamus O’ Brien………………………………………. 43

10.4 Farmers Questionnaire……………………………………………….. 44

10.5 Focus Group Consent form………………………………………….. 46

10.6 Focus Group demographic form…………………………………….. 47

10.7 Focus Group Questions ……………………………………………… 48

III

Work submitted for assessment which does not include this declaration will not be assessed.

DECLARATION

*I declare that all material in this assignment is entirely my own work except where duly acknowledged.

*I have cited the sources of all quotations, paraphrases, summaries of information, tables, diagrams or other material; including software and other electronic media in which intellectual property rights may reside.

*I have provided a complete bibliography of all works and sources used in the preparation of this submission.

*I understand that failure to comply with the Institute’s regulations governing plagiarism constitutes a serious offence.

Student Name: (Printed) ____________________________________________

Student Number(s): ____________________________________________

Signature(s): ____________________________________________

Date: ____________________________________________

List of Tables

Figure 1 Focus group demographic table…………………………………… 8

Figure 2 Questionnaire demographic table…………………………………… 9

Figure 3 Research Timeline table…………………………………………….. 10

Figure 4 Most important to Carlow’s rural population bar chart……………… 18

Figure 5 Protest against the government bar chart…………………………….. 20

Figure 6 Awareness of E.U institutions bar chart…………………………….. 21

Figure 7 Influence rating bar chart………………………………………………22

Figure 8 European Elections national or European bar chart………………….23

Glossary

C.A.P: (Common Agricultural Policy)

C.E.J.A: (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultures/ European Council of young Farmers)

Co- decision: (a legal mechanism established by the Lisbon treaty, which means the commission can’t pass a law without first consulting with the parliament.)

E.U: (European Union)

Macra Na Feirme : (an organisation for young people between the ages of 17-35)

I.F.A.C: (Irish Farm Accounts Co-op)

M.E.P: (Member of the European Parliament)

P.R.S.T.V: (Proportional representation single transferable vote)

VI

Acknowledgements

The author would like to dedicate this final year dissertation to his late grandfather Pat Mc Gill a former Fianna Fail director of elections for the Leinster constituency during the 1979 European Parliament election. His great stories of elections past fuelled the author’s interest in politics.

The author would also like to thank Liam Aylward M.E.P (Member of the European Parliament) and former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultures) president Seamus O’Brien for their participation in the interviews. As a result of both interviews the author not only increased his knowledge of how the European Parliament works but also how it is applicable to rural Ireland.

The author wishes to acknowledge Eric Donald Head of P.R at Teagasc, who provided a suitable definition for rural Ireland. The definition that he provided was of great benefit to the overall study.

The author would not only like to thank the members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme for taking part in the research but for the great friendship they have shown since he joined the club nearly four years ago. The five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme not only agreed to take part in the focus group but were very enthusiastic about the idea. It was their enthusiasm that made the authors job a lot easier.

The eight farmers not only welcomed the author into their homes but greatly added to the study through their participation in the questionnaire.

The author would also like to thank his mother Maura Jordan for always being by his side throughout the dissertation journey and educational experience. The authors aunt Mary Jordan was not only willing to read the various drafts of this dissertation but also provided the author with great encouragement throughout the dissertation journey.

The author would also like to thank his fellow 3^rd year Media and P.R classmates for their continued support during the dissertation journey and the last three years of college life.

Finally the author would like to thank his supervisor Pauline Madigan who not only guided him through the dissertation but also the last three years of his college life. It was this guidance that made the authors time in I.T Carlow the happiest of his educational experience

VII

Abstract

As a result of the European Parliament’s direct election by the people of Europe, it is now the only multinational parliament in the world, the parliament also plays an increasingly important role in the European integration process (Moussis, 2005). The overall title for the research carried out is “Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme”. This study investigates the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s rural population through interviews with Liam Aylward M.E.P (Member of the European Parliament) and former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) President Seamus O’Brien.

The study was aided by a questionnaire with eight farmers from rural Carlow and a focus group with five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme was also conducted. One of the main roles of the European Parliament is to examine the implementation of E.U. law. Since the introduction of Co-decision (a legal mechanism established by the Lisbon treaty, which means the commission can’t pass a law without first consulting with the parliament), there can also be little doubt that the European Parliament is one of the main pillars of decision making in the E.U. There will always be a need to educate E.U. publics about the directives and legislation coming from the European Parliament.

The study has found while the work of the European parliament is applicable to rural Ireland, it is still however perceived by some as the weakest of the E.U institutions when it comes to decision making on important issues such as the C.A.P. This project aids our understanding of the perceptions of the European Parliament and how its work is applicable to rural Ireland.

VIII

Chapter 1. Research Objectives

There are a number of objectives the author wanted to achieve as a result of carrying out this research project.

i. To establish what is meant by perception.

To ensure my understanding of perception is put into context in relation to my study.
To increase understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament.
To investigate how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland.
To investigate the perception of the European Parliament among the membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme.

Chapter 2. Introduction

This study investigated the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s rural population through interviews with Liam Aylward M.E.P (Member of the European Parliament) and former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) President Seamus O’Brien. The author not only wanted to increase his own understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament but also how the people of rural Carlow perceive it. The author wanted to carry out this research with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme. This came about from the auntors active membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme. An investigation into the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s rural population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme, was carried out as part of the authors final year of studies for a B.A (Hons) in Media and Public Relations. The author always had an interest in politics which was precipitated through his membership of Fianna Fail and Ogra Fianna Fail respectively. A farming background and membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme, encouraged him to examine the perceptions his fellow members hold towards the European Parliament. Despite the commonly held belief that carrying out a final year dissertation is difficult, it was through an interest in both politics and rural affairs that made the workload seem lighter.

The research project carried out, ties in perfectly with the public affairs module on the B.A (Hons) Media and Public Relations syllabus. Public affairs is of huge interest to the author and he hopes to pursue a career in the area. It was learned through the study of the law module that E.U institutions such as the European Parliament have a bearing on Irish law. The author agrees with the views expressed by Ellen Gunning when she said “The E.U will compel P.R people to re-think the ways in which they communicate on behalf of their clients” (Gunning, 2007 p378). The author was also struck by how the E.U and its institutions will have an impact on the media of communication, through the introduction of directives on direct mail, the use of databases and information held on computers and the cross ownership of the media themselves (Gunning, 2007).

This study is particularly significant as European Elections will be held in May of this year. It is also worth pointing out that this year marks the 35^th anniversary of the first direct European elections in 1979, before then it was up to governments to nominate M.E.P.s to the European Parliament. Last year Ireland not only celebrated four decades of E.U membership but also 40 years of active participation in the European Parliament.

Since Macra Na Feirme is an integral part of the research it is important to mention that they will be celebrating 70 years of representing rural Ireland’s youth. The study not only examines the perceptions of Carlow’s rural population towards the European Parliament, but also how its work is applicable to rural Ireland.

Chapter 3. Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction

The aim of this research is to explore the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s rural population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme. When planning a research project a decision must be taken whether to use quantitative or qualitative research methods. The author believed for the purposes of this study it was important to use both methods. In an effort to gather information, interviews, questionnaires and a focus group were conducted. This had the advantage of allowing the author to gauge the perceptions of the participants towards the European Parliament.

The main objectives for this research are:

1. To research what is meant by perception.

2. To ensure my understanding of perception is put into context in relation to the overall study.

3. To increase understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament.

4. To investigate how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland.

5. To investigate the perception of the European Parliament among the membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme.

3.2 Secondary Research

The secondary research conducted for this dissertation gave both shape and structure to the primary research that followed.

3.2.1 Literature review

It was important for the author to identify specific types of literature in order to judge the importance of what was found, (Greener 2008). Literature reviews are used to demonstrate that students have gained significant and substantial knowledge independently of their own research project (Davies, 2007).

After researching the topic the literature review focused on the following key areas.

· Perception

· European Parliament

· Carlow’s Rural Population.

· Tullow Macra Na Feirme.

The literature review also allowed the author to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the work other people have done and reflect on the relevant field of knowledge (Davies, 2007). As part of the literature review extensive literature from the college library was consulted. While a multitude of academic books and journals were found on the key areas stated above, a definition or any other literature on the subject of rural Ireland could not be found. Contact was then made with Mr Eric Donald Head of PR in Teagasc, who subsequently provided a suitable definition. Teagasc is the Irish agriculture and food development authority which is responsible for providing research, advisory and training services to agricultural food industries and rural communities (Teagasc 2013). Teagasc defines rural Ireland as “all areas located beyond the administrative boundaries of the five largest cities” (Teagasc,2011 p3).

3.3 Primary Research

As part of the primary research conducted for this dissertation, the author used both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

3.3.1 Qualitative Research:

Qualitative research emphasises a phenomenological view in which inheres in the perceptions of individuals, (Glatthon, Joyner 2005). This kind of research allowed the author to view individuals in their situational context (Davies, 2007). As part of the qualitative research carried out, interviews were conducted with Liam Aylward M.E.P. and former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A president Seamus O’ Brien. A focus group was also conducted with five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme.

3.3.1.1 Interviews

Interviews were particularly useful when the author investigated how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland. Interviews are essentially a conversation with a purpose (Davies, 2007). There are many advantages associated with research interviewing. Interviews are a good starting point for undergraduate and inexperienced researchers because it offers a degree of structure (ibid). All interviews were recorded on a smart phone.

3.3.1.1.1 Interview One: Liam Aylward Fianna Fail M.E.P. (Member of the European Parliament) for Ireland South

On Monday the 20^th of January an interview was conducted with Fianna Fail M.E.P. Liam Aylward in Carpenter’s Bar Barrack Street Carlow. When contact was first made with Liam Aylward, he happily agreed to take part in the interview. He was also given a brief synopsis as to what the research topic is about. This interview proved successful in relation to understanding the work carried out by the European Parliament. Liam Aylward is a former County Councillor, T.D and Junior minister with nearly 40 years political experience. The five questions he was asked focused, in three key areas.

· European Parliament

· C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy)

· Carlow’s Rural Population

The interview questions can be seen in appendices 14.2. The author emailed the questions in advance of the interview. While Liam Aylward is under no doubt that European elections are more about national than European issues he believes the only members of the electorate that can distinguish are farmers “farmers can distinguish between the two because they know they benefit hugely form it”. Liam Aylward also made the point that an unprecedented 8,000 amendments were made to the C.A.P. proposal “in our committee of agriculture there was a total of 8,000 amendments made to the C.A.P. and every one of those was dealt with”. The author then proceeded to transcribe the key notes from the conversation. The interview was approximately 15 minutes in duration.

3.3.1.1.2 Interview two: Seamus O’ Brien Former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) president.

On Monday the 20^th of January the author conducted an interview with Seamus O’Brien in his home in Knockballystyne Tullow Co. Carlow. The interview was hugely beneficial to the overall study as it allowed the conversation to develop in relation to the question of how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland. When contact was first made with Seamus O’ Brien he happily agreed to take part in the interview. Seamus O’Brien is a farmer from Tullow Co. Carlow who also currently serves as chairman of I.F.A.C (Irish Farm Accounts Co-op) and has served on the board of numerous organisations.

He was asked four questions under the following themes:

· Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A

· Carlow’s Rural Population

· C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy)

Seamus O’Brien was given time to read and fully understand the questions being asked of him. The interview questions can be seen in appendices 14.3. The interview was approximately 30 minutes in duration. Seamus O’ Brien was keen to point out that regardless of what county you come from Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament has been hugely beneficial. One of the main benefits that came from this active participation in his opinion has been the C.A.P. Seamus O’Brien agreed that the C.A.P. programme has been incredibly successful. However he was scathing in his criticism of the M.E.Ps in the parliament today “in many instances M.E.Ps are not overly familiar with the basics of food production and they are oblivious to the principals of food production”. The interview with Seamus O’Brien was recorded on a smartphone. The key points from the conversation were taken and transcribed.

3.3.1.2 Focus Group

A focus group was conducted because they can be used to explore how people will react to a proposal, (Cutlip, Center, and Broom 2005).

The author made contact with members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme to inquire about their availability for a focus group on Sunday the 16^th of February at 2.30 pm in the offices of Maura Mc Gill & Associates Tullow. In total five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme agreed to take part in the focus group. According to Martin Brett Davies, for “a student project four, five or six will give you as much as you are likely to need” (Davies, 2007 p179). Preparations were then made to set up a suitable room at the location where the focus group was going to take place. Once the five participants of Tullow Macra Na Feirme arrived they were offered refreshments and given a brief synopsis as to what the research was all about. They were also asked to fill out two forms one indicating their age and gender and the other consenting to the focus group. The researcher prepared a list of questions to steer the focus group and to ensure that it was achieving the objective set out in the research. The focus group questions can be seen in appendices 14.7. The focus group was recorded on the author’s smart phone. It is also standard practice for participants to agree to the discussion being audio recorded (Davies, 2007). Consent forms can be seen in appendices 14.5. The focus group was approximately 23 minutes in duration and was of great benefit when the author was investigating the perception of the European Parliament amongst members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme. The table below shows the demographic of those who took part in the focus group. The focus group demographic form can be seen in appendices 14.6. Figure 1

Subject	Age Category
Female 1	18-25
Female 2	18-25
Female 3	25-35
Male 1	25-35
Male 2	18-25

3.3.2 Quantitative Research

Quantitative research is a perspective that derives from a positivist epistemology which holds that there is an objective reality that can be expressed numerically, (Glatthon, Joyner 2005).

3.3.2.1 Questionnaire

Martin B. Davies believes that questionnaires “are intended to facilitate communication usually brief, but always driven by the researchers own agenda” (Davies, 2007 p82). Time was also taken to write the questionnaire and the temptation to rush preparations was resisted (ibid). A list was made of potential farmers in the Carlow area who might be interested in taking part in the questionnaire. The eight farmers were then approached to take part. The questionnaires were conducted during the week of the 3^rd of February, in the homes of the eight farmers. They were also each given a brief synopsis as to what the research was all about. The sampling method used was purposive sampling. This kind of sampling method invites the researcher to identify and target individuals who are believed to be typical of the population being studied (ibid). A copy of the questionnaire can be seen in appendices 14.4. The table shows the demographic of the eight farmers who took part in the questionnaire.

Subject	Age Category
Male Farmer 1	35+
Males Farmer 2	35+
Male Farmer 3	35+
Male Farmer 4	35+
Male Farmer 5	35+
Female Farmer 1	35+
Female Farmer 2	35+
Female farmer 3	35+

Figure 2

3.4 Limitations

There were a number of limitations that hindered the author from conducting comprehensive research.

While the author recorded the interviews with Seamus O’Brien and Liam Aylward in full, only key points from the conversation were transcribed As a result it is possible that key findings could have been missed. The transcribing of the conversation in full proved very time consuming. Despite the fact at undergraduate level there is no requirement to transcribe an interview in full, it is still however a limitation.

The author believes that it was unfortunate only five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme took part in the focus group. Many who expressed an interest in coming were unable to attend due to farm commitments.

3.5 Timeline: Figure 3

Research Proposal	Friday 25^th of October 2013
Research Methodology	Friday 22^nd of November 2013
Literature review	Monday 13^th of January 2014
Interview with Liam Aylward M.E.P.	Monday 20^th of January 2014
Interview with Seamus O Brien	Monday 20^th of January 2014
Distribution of questionnaire	Week of 3^rd of February 2014
Conduction of Focus Group	Sunday 16^th of February 2014
Analysis of all research	February 2014
Submission of Dissertation	Friday 28^th of March 2014

Chapter 4. Literature Review

4.1 Introduction

As a result of the European Parliament’s direct election by the people of Europe, it is now the only multinational parliament in the world, the parliament also plays an increasingly important role in the European integration process (Moussis, 2005). The overall title for the research carried out is “Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme”. After researching the topic the author has decided the literature review should focus on the following areas.

Perception
European Parliament
Carlow’s Rural Population
Tullow Macra Na Feirme

The above points are expanded and critiqued in this literature review.

4.2 Perception

Leonardo Da Vinci once said “all our knowledge has origins in our perception” (Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremmer, Sutherland, Vilek 2006 pp 166).

In order to establish what is meant by perception and put it into context in relation to the overall study, extensive literature was sourced from the college library. He found a multitude of books that provided him with definitions and theories of perception. The literature examined also provided the author with information as to how perception works.

According to “Psychology the Science of Mind and Behaviour”, perception can be defined as “making sense of what our senses tell us, it is the active process of organising this stimulus input and giving it meaning” (Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremmer, Sutherland, Vilek 2006 pp 167). Perception begins with a stimulus received by the sensory receptors, and then they translate stimulus properties into nerve impulses (ibid). Once feature detector analyse the stimulus features, they are reconstructed into natural representation, this natural representation is compared with previously held information in the brain (ibid). “Psychology the Science of Mind and Behaviour”, defines features detectors as “group of neurons within the primary visual cortex organised to receive and integrate sensory nerve impulses originating in specific regions of the retina” (Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremmer, Sutherland, Vilek 2006 pp 118). Once the matching process results in recognition and interpretation of stimulus we have perception (ibid).

Hewstone, Finchan and Foster (2005), describes the parallel processing models of perception as an “analysis of different stimulus attributes, such as identity and location, proceeds simultaneously along different pathways, even from the earliest stages” (Hewstone, Finchan, Foster 2005 pp 161). The authors also suggest that there is evidence for multiple mechanisms that extract information in parallel from the retinal image (ibid). Hewstone, Fincham and Foster stated in relation to the serial model of perception, “it is natural to assume that sensory processing proceeds through a series of stages” (Hewstone, Finchan, Foster 2005 pp 160). In the case of vision, further processing occurs in the retina before the results of the analysis are sent up the optic nerve and then to the primary visual cortex (ibid). In relation to all sensory modalities, there are several further stages of processing which occur within the cortex (ibid). At each stage of the process, further work takes place to analyse what is happening in the environment around them (ibid). As a result of the several stages involved, this method of understanding perception as a sequence of process became known as the serial model of perception (ibid). However Hewstone, Fincham and Foster argue that the serial model is inadequate or at least incomplete, and has been replaced by other models of perception (Hewstone, Finchan, and Foster 2005). The recurrent processing model theory of perception indicates that the effects of a stimulus on the higher centres of the brain also feed back down to modulate early stages of processing (ibid). The authors go on to argue the higher stages of processing are taken to be those that exist anatomically further away from the sensory receptors (ibid). However there is mounting evidence to suggest that the influence of higher functions can be seen at almost all stages of the sensory analysis, this casts great doubt on the existence of sharp division between serial stages of sensation perception and cognition (ibid). Since Ireland entered the European Union in 1973 it has played a full and active role in the discussion and debates that have taken place in the European Parliament. However, the perceptions people of Carlow’s rural population hold in relation to the European Parliament has changed over that time.

4.3 European Parliament

The European Parliament consists of directly elected representatives of the member states and is the only directly elected body in the E.U. (Carolan, 2004).

In an effort to establish the work carried out by the European Parliament, the author used the resources in the college library to research the topic. In Nicholas Mousis’s book Access to “European Union, Law Economics and Polices”, he regarded the four functions of the European Parliament as “legislative, political, supervisory and budgetary” (Moussis, 2005 p49). The parliament has many legislative and political functions such as the accession of new member states, giving or withholding of structural funds, the development or altering of existing polices, and initiates proceedings against the European Court of Justice (Moussis, 2005). The European Parliament also has many supervisory and budgetary powers some of which include the appointment of an ombudsman to receive complaints from E.U. citizens and the monitoring of E.U. expenditure (Moussis, 2005). In an article written for the Journal of Politics Simon Hix and Michael Marsh ask the question “after six sets of European elections, do voters use these elections to punish their national governments?” (Marsh, Hix 2007 p495). However the article observes while current research supports the view that European Parliament elections are more national than European, there is evidence to suggest that party positions towards E.U. can gain or lose support in an election (ibid). Christilla Roederer-Rynining points out in an article entitled From “‘Talking Shop’ to ‘Working Parliament’? The European Parliament and Agricultural Change”, that contrary to the perceptions of parliamentary powers, she argues that the European Parliament committees can steer agricultural change (Roederer Rynning, 2003). Despite the fact previous studies of agricultural change suggest that the European Parliament committees enjoyed limited input into formal policy making in this area (Roederer Rynning, 2003). Owing to the fact that Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament has resulted in many benefits for Carlow’s rural population, it is important that the literature review takes this into account.

4.4 Carlow’s Rural Population

The European parliament has made a major contribution to Carlow’s economic and social development, since Ireland first entered the European Union in 1973 (The European Commission Ireland, 2013).

The author first researched the college library in an effort to find a definition and other literature relating to rural Ireland. However the college library provided the author with very little research relating to the topic. The author then contacted the head of Public Relations in Teagasc Mr Eric Donald for guidance on the matter. Teagasc is the Irish agriculture and food development authority, which is responsible for providing research, advisory and training services to the agricultural, food industry and rural communities (Teagasc 2014). Eric Donald subsequently sent the author relevant literature which provided him with a definition for Rural Ireland. A report published by Teagasc in 2011 showed that Rural Ireland is defined as “all areas located beyond the administrative boundaries of the five largest cities.” (Meredith, 2011 pg5). Teagasc also suggest that literature on the topic of rural development is populated by uncritical use of terms such as rural regions, rural areas, and rurality (Meredith, 2006). The author then consulted the European Commission representative in Ireland website for information regarding how Carlow’s Rural population benefited from Ireland’s active role in the European Parliament. The European Commission representative in Ireland observes that while large infrastructure projects tend to grab the headlines, it is also important to remember that the European Union has funded many local initiatives (The European Commission Ireland, 2013). The aim of these projects being to improve the day to day lives of people who live in places similar to Rural Carlow (ibid). The Leader programme was first set up by the E.U. Commission in 1991 (ibid). According to the European Commission representative in Ireland, the aim of this initiative is not only to improve the quality of life in rural areas like Carlow but also to encourage diversification of the rural economy (ibid). In the case of Carlow, the counties Leader programme had a budget of €8.9 million in 2013(ibid). Currently Irish farmers receive €2.3billion from C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) each year (ibid). The aims of the C.A.P. programme first launched in 1962 was, to improve agricultural productivity and to ensure that E.U. farmers can make a reasonable living (European Commission, 2012). E.U. funding has also greatly assisted the implementation of broadband services not only in Carlow but throughout the country (European Commission Representation Ireland, 2013). This includes the provision of 100 MBPS broadband access and associated services to secondary schools. A total of 78 secondary schools are part of this project one of them in Carlow (ibid). Macra Na Feirme has not only provided the young people of Carlow’s Rural population with a social outlet over the past seven decades, the organisation has also given its members a voice at home and in Europe.

4.5 Tullow Macra Na Feirme

Tullow Macra Na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17-35 and was founded in 1946, two years after the national organisation (Macra Na Feirme, 2013). Over the years Tullow Macra Na Feirme has expanded into the largest Macra Club in Carlow and is also the second oldest club in the country.

The author consulted relevant information regarding Macra Na Feimre from its website. Macra Na Feirme is a democratic organisation where every member is entitled to air their views at regional and national level (ibid). In 2014 Macra Na Feirme will be celebrating its 70^th anniversary. Macra Na Feirme estimates that around 250,000 people have passed through the ranks of the organisation. (ibid). The organisation also endeavours to provide its members with new challenges (ibid). Macra Na Feirme is a member of C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) which is the voice of Europe’s next generation of young farmers to European institutions such as the European Parliament. (ibid) Tullow Macra Na Feirme was also fortunate to have one of its former members serve as C.E.J.A president, Seamus O Brien also served as national Macra Na Feirme president (ibid).

4.6 Conclusion

Evaluation of the main points of this literature review will show, that despite the fact Ireland has participated fully in the European Parliament, members of the electorate still use their vote at European election time to punish their national government. The author of the review is an agreement with Robert. A Jones when he said “euro elections provide voters with neither clear choices of governmental leadership nor of polices” (Jones, 2001 p158). The author also believes this could explain why there is a huge volume of protest voting in European Parliament elections. The review not only highlighted the many roles and functions of the European Parliament. It has also highlighted how Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament has benefitted Carlow’s Rural population over the last four decades. In this review topics associated with the research title have been discussed such as Perception, European Parliament, Carlow’s Rural population, and Tullow Macra Na Feirme. The literature examined will help provide structure to the primary research that will follow.

Chapter 5. Findings

5.1 Introduction

As part of the qualitative research undertaken, the author conducted a questionnaire, focus group and two interviews. Eight farmers from Rural Carlow were approached to take part in the questionnaire. This group was made up of 5 male and 3 female and were all in the over 35 age category. Interviews were conducted with Fianna Fail M.E.P. (Member of the European Parliament) for Ireland East Liam Aylward and former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) President Seamus O’ Brien. A focus group was also conducted with five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme. These members were in the 18-25 and 25-35 age groups The questions for the interviews and focus group can be found in the appendices, together with a copy of the questionnaire.

5.2 Questionnaire

Eight farmers from rural Carlow were approached to take part in the questionnaire. The questions were asked face to face in the homes of the eight farmers. This group was made up of five males and three females all of whom were in the over 35 age category. A copy of the questionnaire can be seen in appendices 14.4.

Which do you believe to be the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population, 1 to 3: 1 being the most important 2 being somewhat important 3 being least important?

Carlow County Council
Dail Eireann
European Parliament

Figure 4

Five out of eight farmers indicated the European Parliament as being the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population.

Three out of eight farmers indicated Carlow County Council as being the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population.

Four out of eight farmers indicated Dail Eireann as being somewhat important to Carlow’s Rural Population.

Two out of eight farmers indicated the European Parliament as being somewhat important to Carlow’s Rural Population.

One farmer believed the European Parliament was the least important to Carlow’s Rural Population.

Would you use you your vote at a European election to protest against the government of the day?

Figure 5

Five out of eight farmers said yes they would use their vote at a European Election to protest against the government of the day.

Three out of eight farmers said no, they would not use their vote at a European Election to protest against the government of the day.

The European Union includes three different institutional structures 1. Parliament, 2. European Commission, 3. Council Of Europe. Were you aware of each of these institutional structures?

Figure 6

Four out of eight farmers said yes they were aware of each of the institutional structures

Four out of eight farmers said no they were not aware of each of the institutional structures

The four farmers who indicated yes answered question six and the four indicated no proceeded to question seven.

How much influence do you think each of the institutions have?

Figure 7

Two out of four farmers gave the European parliament a five, indicating it had very high influence within the E.U.

Two out of four farmers gave the European Parliament a four, indicating it had a high influence within the E.U.

Two out of four farmers gave the European Commission a four, indicating it had a high influence within the E.U.

Two out of four farmers gave the European Commission a three, indicating it had influence within the E.U.

One out of the four farmers gave the European Council a four, indicating it had a high influence within the E.U.

One out of the four farmers gave the European Council a 2, indicating it had a medium influence within the E.U.

Two out of four farmers gave the European Council a 3, indicating it had influence within the E.U.

Do you think European Parliament elections are more about National than European issues?

Figure 8

Seven farmers indicated they did not believe European elections are more about National than European issues.

One farmer indicated maybe, European elections are more about National than European issues.

Which E.U institution has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) implementation?

Please rank in order of preference, 1 having the most influence?

European Parliament
European Commission
The European Council

All eight farmers indicated the European Commission has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. implementation.

Do you think Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament has benefited Carlow’s Rural Population?

All eight farmers believed Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament has benefited Carlow’s rural population.

5.3 Summary of interview one

The following conversation with Liam Aylward Fianna Fail M.E.P. (Member of the European Parliament) for Ireland South was recorded on Monday January 20th in Carpenter’s Public House Barrack Street Carlow at 2.30pm. The interview was approximately 15 minutes in duration. In the following interview only key points are noted. A copy of the interview questions can be seen in appendices 14.2.

Research carried out by Simon Hix and Michael Marsh “showed that European Elections are more about national issues than European”. Do you agree with that view?

The reality is 90 % of the people I meet will ask me about local issues. I understand the local issues but I think it is a mistake on behalf of the Irish people that they can’t distinguish between the two. Farmers can distinguish between the two because they know they benefit hugely from it. You also get the blame for what happens locally regardless of whether you did a top class job in Europe or not.

In an article written for the “Journal of Politics” Simon Hix and Michael Marsh raised the issue of how some members of the electorate use European Parliament elections to demonstrate their anger against the government of the day. To what extent do you agree with this view?

That is correct. For example when I stood for election in 2004 the main issue everywhere was the smoking ban that dominated the complete duration of the campaign. Micheal Martin had just brought it in at the time. We got a very bad reaction even thought the government was doing quite well at the time.

Research has shown that in relation to agricultural change European Parliament committees enjoyed limited input into formal policy making in this area. Do you agree?

In the past, however during the current C.A.P. reform in our Committee of Agriculture there was a total of 8,000 amendments to the C.A.P. and every one of those amendments were dealt with.

How has Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament benefited Carlow’s rural population?

Under the rural development, outside of the direct payments, the leader programme is run from Europe. If you take all the jobs in the food industry the Co-ops for example they are all supported by money coming from Europe. That money has been consistently coming since 1973.

The C.A.P. programme was first set up in 1962. What role has the European Parliament played in terms of its implementation?

In the past the parliament would have only made its views on C.A.P. known but did not have the power of co-decision until Lisbon was passed. Since then the parliament is getting stronger and stronger and is now bering its teeth.

5.4 Summary of interview two

The following conversation with Seamus O’ Brien former Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A president was recorded on Monday the 20^th of January in his home in Knockballystyne Tullow Co. Carlow at 7.30pm. The interview was approximately 30 minutes in duration. In the following interview only key points are noted. A copy of the interview questions can be seen in appendices 14.3.

As a former president of both organisations do you think Macra Na Feirme’s partnership in Europe with C.E.J.A has given its members a voice to the European Parliament?

C.E.J.A today is a big organisation probably not as strong as it was in my time. It does not have the same common background that existed in the earlier days.

Is it important that Macra and C.E.J.A continue this partnership?

Seamus O Brien mentioned a number of former C.E.J.A members who have gone on to hold influential political positions within the European Union.

In your opinion has Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament benefited Carlow’s rural population?

Ireland’s rural population, regardless of what county you come from, has benefited enormously from E.U membership. The great benefits that accrued to Rural Ireland have been the Common Agricultural Policy, and the Parliaments role in relation to C.A.P. has been diluted till recent times.

According to the European Commission, the aims of the C.A.P. programme when it was first set up in 1962, “were to improve productivity, and ensure farmers can make a reasonable living”. Do you think the European Parliament has lost sight of these aims?

In many instances M.E.P.s are not overly familiar with the basis of producing food, and they are oblivious to the principles of food production. There is a mentality among legislators in the National and European Parliament that see everything in an assembly line process, you put something in that morning and its ready by lunch time.

5.5 Focus Group

Five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme took part in the Focus group. A copy of the focus group questions can be seen in appendices 14.7. The focus group research consent form can be seen in appendices 14.5.

Which do you believe to be the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population?

Carlow County Council
Dail Eireann

· European Parliament

It was found that the majority of participants believed Carlow County Council was the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population. Four participants said Carlow County Council and only one male participant indicated Dail Eireann.

Would you use you your vote at a European election to protest against the government of the day?

All participants in the group were eligible to vote therefore the author believed it was appropriate to ask this question. Only two participants said they would use their vote to protest against the government of the day. The remaining two members of Tullow Macra either did not know or felt their vote would not make a difference.

The European Union includes three different institutional structures

Parliament
European Commission
Council Of Europe

Where you aware of each of these institutional structures?

The author presented a large sheet of paper with the names of three E.U institutions. The five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme who took part in the focus group were aware of the three institutional structures. However only one was able to tell the author what role each carried out.

Do you think European Parliament elections are more about National than European issues?

Four out of the five members of Tullow Macra who took part in the focus group, believed that European parliament elections are more about national issues with one female participant unable to indicate an opinion.

Which E.U institution has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) implementation?

European Parliament
European Commission
The European Council

Three out of the five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme believed the European Parliament had the most influence in relation to C.A.P. implementation. A female participant offered this rationale for her view, “The C.A.P. ultimately, is decided by parliament and your M.E.P. has influence” One male participant believed the European Council had the most influence when it came to C.A.P. implementation, while the remaining participant was unable to indicate an answer.

Do you think Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament has benefited Carlow’s Rural Population?

Four out of five believed Irelands active participation benefited Carlow’s Rural population, with only one male participant saying he did not know. One participant said “farming would not survive without Europe”.

Can you give an example of this?

Two examples the five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme gave were Roads and C.A.P.

Chapter. 6 Analysis of Findings

6.1 Introduction

On the advice of the authors supervisor, similar questions were asked in the interviews, focus group, and questionnaire, this was to make the analysing of information easier. Information from the literature review is also included in the analysis. It is also important for the author to be mindful of the research objectives set out. Hence the analysis of findings will be listed under the relevant research objective. The following are research objectives

1. To establish what is meant by perception

2. To ensure my understanding of perception is put into context in relation to my study

3. To increase understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament.

4. To investigate how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland

To investigate the perception of the European Parliament among the membership of Macra Na Feirme

6.2 To establish what is meant by perception

Defining perception along with placing an understanding of perception in the context of this particular study was initially important. A literature review found a multitude of books providing various definitions and theories of perception. Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremmer, Sutherland, Vilek (2006) define perception as ‘making sense of what our senses tell us, it is the active process of organising this stimulus input and giving it meaning’. Many theories of perception such as the parallel processing model, and the serial model of perception were uncovered from the literature review. Despite the fact Ireland has played a full and active roll in the European Parliament since 1973, the perception of Carlow’s rural population towards the parliament has changed radically over that time.

6.3 To increase understanding of the work carried out by the European Parliament.

Liam Aylward M.E.P. (Member of the European Parliament) was asked “Research has shown that European elections tend to be more about national issues than European. Do you agree?” He agreed with this view and gave this example “When I go canvassing in an estate for example the first thing I get asked about is street lighting”. Liam Aylward also made the point that the only members of the electorate that are able to distinguish between national and European issues are farmers. This point can be supported by the fact that seven out of eight farmers who took part in the questionnaire believed European Parliament elections are more about European issues. Liam Aylward believes that perhaps we should examine our voting system “We should try a list system on a trial basis a system that is used throughout Europe”. He also believed “we can no longer do the traditional stuff anymore because this constituency goes from the Dublin border to the Kerry pensilla”.

Simon Hix and Micheal Marsh (2007) support the view expressed by existing research on the European Parliament when it suggests that European elections are more national than European contests. They also raised the issue of how some members of the electorate use European elections to protest against the government of the day. Liam Aylward was asked to what extent did he agree with this view. He agreed and gave this example “the main issue of the 2004 campaign was the smoking ban, it dominated the complete duration of the campaign and in fact contributed to a bad result at the time”. However when asked the same question five out of eight farmers said they would not use their vote to protest against the government of the day.

Christillia Roederer Ryning (2003) believes European Parliament committees can steer agricultural change, despite previous studies that say otherwise. Liam Aylward made the point that while it was the case in the past “at committee stage there were a total of 8,000 amendments made to the current C.A.P. proposal and every one of those proposals were dealt with”.

6.4 To investigate how the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland

In the interviews, focus group, and questionnaire conducted, all participants were asked the question “has Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament benefitted Carlow’s rural population?” Liam Aylward was keen to point out it has not only benefited farmers, “under the rural development programme outside of the direct payments the leader programme comes from Europe”.

As said by the European Commission representative in Ireland, in 2013 the Carlow leader programme had a budget of €8.9 million. Seamus O’ Brien made the point that regardless of what county you come from, Irelands rural population has benefited enormously from Irelands participation in the European Parliament “the great benefits that accrued to Carlow’s rural population the same as anywhere else has been the C.A.P.”. The eight farmers who took part in the survey all agreed with the statement. The examples they provided included roads, leader funding and farm grants.

As stated by the European Commission representative in Ireland, Irish farmers received €2.3bn under the C.A.P. programme in 2013. They also make the point that farmers from Carlow have benefited greatly from this fund. Liam Aylward was asked what role has the parliament played in its implementation over the last five decades. He made the point “It is now really for the first time since the introduction of Co-decision, the parliament is gradually getting stronger and stronger”. Liam Aylward also believes that in relation to C.A.P., the parliament will soon overshadow the commission.

According to the European Commission the aims of the C.A.P. programme when it was first set up in 1962, “were to improve productivity, and ensure farmers can make a reasonable living”. The author asked Seamus O’ Brien, “do you think the European Parliament has lost sight of these aims”? While Seamus O’ Brien believed the C.A.P. has been hugely successful, he had this to say about the M.E.P.s in the parliament “Today the legislators are not products of that time and they have never experienced want, and in many instances, are not familiar with the basics of food production”.

6.5 To investigate the perception of the European Parliament among the membership of Macra Na Feirme.

In the focus group carried out with five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme they were asked the question “would you use your vote at a European election to protest against the government of the day?” Four out of the five participants who took part in the focus group believed European Parliament elections were more about national issues. Observing the body language of the group when asked this question they seemed to be more definite about the answers they gave to this question. A female participant offered the view “They are definitely more about national issues”. One participant during the focus group expressed the view that the last government’s decision to re run the Lisbon Treaty would give her reason to use her vote in protest “you feel your vote is thrown in the bin unless it is the one they want”.

The European Union is made up of many different institutional structures, which include the Parliament, Commission and Council. The focus group were asked if they were aware of the three institutional structures. While all five were aware, only one participant was able to indicate what role each carried out. It was observed that when this question was asked all but one participant appeared to be confused by the institutional structures of the E.U. In contrast only four out of eight farmers who took part in the questionnaire were aware of the three institutional structures.

When asked “has Irelands active participation in the European Parliament benefited Carlow’s rural population”, four out of five participants from the focus group agreed. Interestingly one male participant made the point “farming would not survive without it”. The five participants who took part in the focus group were asked which E.U institution has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. implementation. Three out of the five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme said the European Parliament. This was in sharp contrast to eight farmers who all believed the Commission had the most influence when it came to C.A.P. implementation. It was observed how the majority of the discussion in the focus group was taken up by the C.A.P. programme.

6.6 Conclusion

The author is in agreement with Martin Brett Davies when he says “often the aim to emerge with findings is they throw light on public attitudes towards aspects of the professional agenda”(Davies 2007 p225). In the case of this research, the findings have thrown a certain light on the perceptions Carlow’s rural population hold towards the European Parliament. The author can conclude the research objectives set out have been met. The interviews focus group and questionnaire carried out, helped to achieve the objectives. Evaluation of the main points will show, not only did the author increase his knowledge of the work carried out by the European Parliament, but also ensured his definition of perception was put into context in relation to the overall study.

Chapter. 7 Conclusions

This study has investigated the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s rural population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme. Through the authors use of both primary and secondary research, he can conclude that while most research would suggest the European Parliament has been hugely beneficial to the rural population, many people from rural Carlow perceive the European Parliament as the weakest of the E.U. institutions. Despite Liam Aylward’s belief that farmers can distinguish between European and National issues, many young people from Carlow’s rural population do not distinguish between the two. If the European Parliament is to play a meaningful role in the future development of rural Carlow, the youth of Carlow’s rural population must perceive it in a positive light. Perhaps organisations such as C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) and Macra Na Feirme can play a part in changing the perception of Carlow’s youth towards the European Parliament.

The author can conclude that there is a multitude of theories and definitions for perception. In light of carrying out the research the importance of placing an understanding of perception in the context of the overall study cannot be understated.

The author’s knowledge of the European Parliament has greatly increased as a result of carrying out the research. It can also be concluded that the benefits associated with Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament has extended to many areas outside of agriculture. In 2013 the Carlow Leader programme had a budget of €8.9 million. It is also important to note that while many large infrastructure projects tend to grab the headlines, the European Parliament does support many local initiatives.

As a result of carrying out the research it can be concluded that the work of the European Parliament is applicable to Rural Ireland. The C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) programme has been hugely beneficial to Carlow’s Rural population. Since Co-decision was introduced under the Lisbon Treaty, the parliament’s role in relation to the C.A.P. programme has been greatly increased. In the last C.A.P. reform, an unprecedented 8,000 amendments were made to the document by the European Parliament agricultural committee. Despite the introduction of Co-decision many people from Carlow’s Rural Population perceive the European Parliament as weak when it comes to decision making.

There is a difference of opinion among older farmers from Carlow and the membership of Tullow Macra Na Feirme on the influence of the European Parliament when it comes to C.A.P. implementation. It was learned during the research that Irish farmers received €2.3bn under the programme in 2013. However the research carried out has shown that older farmers from Carlow, perceive the European Commission as having the most influence when it comes to C.A.P. implementation, whereas the members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme believe the European Parliament has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. implementation.

Chapter. 8 Recommendations

A number of recommendations can be made from carrying out this research.

8.1 Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen des Jeunes Agricultuers) need to educate members on the European Union institutions.

Despite the fact only five members of Tullow Macra Na Feirme took part in the focus group it is possible that results from the research could be mirrored in other clubs across the country. The role of CE.J.A is to make representations on behalf of the young farmers of Europe to European institutions such as the Parliament. How can Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A represent the concerns of the young people of Carlow’s rural population in Europe, if the members themselves don’t know anything about the EU institutions? Since the introduction of Co- decision under the Lisbon treaty, the European Parliament has equal power in decision making. Therefore it has huge influence on issues of agricultural importance such as the C.A.P.(Common Agricultural Policy). If Ireland is to continue its active participation in the European Parliament, groups such as Macra Na Feirme and C.E.J.A must educate their members on the value of this participation.

8.2 More Media Coverage of the European Parliament

If the perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural population are to change, the Irish media must increase its coverage of the parliaments activities. When the media cover European issues, it is mostly concentrated on the work of the commission, not taking into account, the great work that is carried out by the parliament. The author recognises that R.T.E broadcasts a monthly European Parliament report programme. However owing to the late hour of its broadcast it makes little impact in changing the perceptions of the European Parliament. Perhaps if the Irish media increased its coverage of the European Parliament, its perception of being the weakest of the European institutions would change.

8.3 Change of Electoral system

In light of the recent changes to the European Parliament constituencies and Liam Aylwards comments regarding the P.R.S.T.V (Proportional Representation Single Transferable Vote) system, a list system should be used on a trial basis. Research carried out by Simon Hix and Michael Marsh suggests that European Parliament elections tend to be more about national issues than European. Perhaps if a list system was used on a trial basis it would remove the parish pump element from European Elections.

Chapter 9. Bibliography

Carolan, B. (2004). EU Law for Irish Students . Dublin: Gill and Macmillan .

Davies, M. B. (2007). Doing a Successful Research Project. Hampshire: Palgrave macmillian

European Commission. (2012). The Common Agricultural Policy A partnership between

Europe and Farmers. Belgium: European Commission Publication Office.

European Commission Representation in Ireland. (2013). What Europe is doing for Carlow.

Dublin : The European Commission Representation in Ireland.

Glatton. A, Joyer. R (2005) Writing the winning thesis or dissertation, Step by Step guide,

Corwin Press.

Greener, S (2008). Business Research Methods, Ventus publishing.

Gunning, E. (2007). Public Realtions A Practical approach 2nd edition. Dublin: Gill and

Macmillan

Hewstone, M .Fincham, D. Foster,J. (2005). Psychology . Oxford: Blackwell.

Jones, R. (2001). The Politics and Economics of the European Union . Cheletenham : Edward Elgar Publishing .

Macra Na Feirme (2013). CEJA - European Council of Young Farmers. http://www.macra.ie/ifac/ceja [accessed date 10/11/2013]

Macra Na Feirme (2013). Origins of Macra na Feirme. available http://www.macra.ie/origins-of-macra-na-feirme [accessed date 16/12/2013]

Macra Na Feirme . (2013). What is Macra?, available http://www.macra.ie/what-is-macra [accessed date 16/12/2013]

Marsh, M. Hix, S (2007). Punishment or Protest? Understanding European. The Journal of Politics, p495–510.

Meredith, D.(2006). Changing Distribution of Irelands 1996-2006: Urban/ Rural population. Dublin: Rural Economy Research Centre, Teagasc.

Meredith, D.(2011). Defining Rural Ireland . Dublin: Teagasc, Rural Economy Development Programme.

Moussis, N. (2005). Access to European Union law, economics, policies. European Study Service.

Passer, M. Smith, R. Holt, N. Bremmer, A. Sutherland,E. Vilek, E.(2006). Psychology the Science of Mind and Behaviour . London: McGraw-Hill Higher Education.

Roederer, C. (2003). From ‘Talking Shop’ to ‘Working Parliament’?The European Parliament and Agricultural Change JCMS 2003, p113–135.

Scott M. Cutlip, Allen H. Center, Glen M. Broom (2005) Effective Public Relations, Pearson

International.

Teagasc. (2013). About Teagasc., available http://www.teagasc.ie/aboutus/

[accessed date 8/1/2014]

Chapter 10 Appendices

10.1 Email to Liam Aylward

Dear Liam

I am emailing you to enquire about the possibility of doing a face-face interview for my final year dissertation. Currently I am studying for a BA (Honours) Level 8 degree in Media and Public Relations at IT Carlow. The title for my dissertation is “The Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with specific reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme”.

My late grandfather Pat Mc Gill was actively involved in Fianna Fail for over seven decades. Following in his footsteps I too joined the party. Currently I hold positions within the local Fianna Fail and Ogra Fianna Fail organisations. Last September I was fortunate enough to have been elected chairman of I.T Carlow Ogra Finna Fail.

The opportunity to interview you would greatly benefit my final year dissertation, please contact me if you require any further information. My Mobile number is: 0876722757 and my home number is 0599159160

Regards

Patrick Jordan

Killane

Ballon

Co. Carlow

10.2 Questions for Liam Aylward M.E.P.

My name is Patrick Jordan I am currently in my final year of studies for a B.A Honours level 8 degree in Media and Public Relations at IT Carlow. As part of my final year of studies I have to complete a dissertation. The title for my dissertation is “Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with specific reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme”.

European Parliament

1. Research carried out by Simon Hix and Michael Marsh “showed that European Elections are more about national issues than European”. Do you agree with that view?

2. In an article written for the “Journal of Politics” Simon Hix and Michael Marsh raised the issue of how some members of the electorate use European Parliament elections to demonstrate their anger against the government of the day. To what extent do you agree with this view?

3. Research has shown that in relation to agricultural change, European Parliament committees, enjoyed limited input into formal policy making in this area. Do you agree?

Carlow’s Rural Population

4. How has Ireland’s active participation in the European Parliament benefited Carlow’s rural population?

Common Agricultural Policy

5. The C.A.P. programme was first set up in 1962. What role has the European Parliament played in terms of its implementation?

10.3 Questions for Seamus O’ Brien former Macra and C.E.J.A (Conseil Europeen de Jeunes Agricultuers) president

My name is Patrick Jordan I am currently in my final year of studies for a B.A Honours level 8 degree in Media and Public Relations at IT Carlow. As part of my final year of studies I have to complete a dissertation. The title for my dissertation is “Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with specific reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme”.

C.E.J.A

1. As a former president of both organisations do you think Macra Na Feirme’s partnership in Europe with C.E.J.A has given its members a voice to the European Parliament?

2. Is it important that Macra and C.E.J.A continue this partnership?

Carlow’s Rural Population

3. In your opinion has Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament benefited Carlow’s rural population?

Common Agricultural Policy

4. According to the European Commission the aims of the C.A.P. programme when it was first set up in 1962, “were to improve productivity, and ensure farmers can make a reasonable living”. Do you think the European Parliament has lost sight of these aims?

10.4 Farmers Questionnaire

Q1. Are You?

Male Female

Q2. What Age category do you fall in?

0-18 18-25 25-35 35+

Q3 Which do you believe to be the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population, 1 to 3: 1 being the most important 2 being somewhat important 3 being least important?

Carlow County Council

Dail Eireann

European Parliament

Q4. Would you use you your vote at a European election to protest against the government of the day?

Yes No Maybe

Don’t Know

Q5 The European Union includes three different institutional structures 1.Parliament, 2.European Commission, 3.Council Of Europe

Where you aware of each of these institutional structures Yes No

If yes answer Q6, if no proceed to Q7

Q6 Indicate in Column A how much influence you think each of the institutions has

Please circle the number that best represents your ratings.

Part	A Level of influence with the E.U
	influence No- influence
European Parliament	5 4 3 2 1 0
European Commission	5 4 3 2 1 0
Council of Europe	5 4 3 2 1 0

Q7 Do you think European Parliament elections are more about National than European issues?

Yes No Maybe Don’t Know

Q8. Which E.U institution has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) implementation?

Please rank in order of preference, 1 having the most influence?

European Parliament

European Commission

The European Council

Q9. Do you think Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament has benefited Carlow’s Rural Population?

Yes No Maybe Don’t Know

Q 10 Can you give an example of this?

Q 11 Any other comments you would like to make?

10.5 Focus Group Consent form

Please tick the Box

I confirm that I have read and understand the information sheet for the above study and have had the opportunity to ask questions.

2. I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I

am free to withdraw at any time, without giving reason.

3. I agree to take part in the above study.

4. I agree to the focus group being audio recorded

I agree to the use of anonymised quotes in publications

Name of Participant Date Signature

Name of Researcher Date Signature

10.6 Focus Group demographic form

Q1. Are You?

Male Female

Q2. What Age category do you fall in?

0-18 18-25 25-35 35+

Please hand this page up at the end of this focus group session. Thank you for taking part and contributing to my research.

10.7 Focus Group Questions

Q1 Which do you believe to be the most important to Carlow’s Rural Population?

Carlow County Council
Dail Eireann

3. European Parliament

Q2.Would you use you your vote at a European election to protest against the government of the day?

Q3 The European Union includes three different institutional structures

1. Parliament,

2. European Commission,

3. Council Of Europe

Where you aware of each of these institutional structures?

Q4 Do you think European Parliament elections are more about National than European issues?

Q5. Which E.U institution has the most influence in terms of C.A.P. (Common Agricultural Policy) implementation?

European Parliament
European Commission
The European Council

Q6. Do you think Ireland’s participation in the European Parliament has benefited Carlow’s Rural Population?

Q 7 Can you give an example of this?

Q 8 Any other comments you would like to make?

Patrick Jordans blog

Friday, 27 March 2015

Exploring the Perceptions of the European Parliament amongst Carlow’s Rural Population with particular reference to Tullow Macra Na Feirme

DECLARATION

Please rank in order of preference, 1 having the most influence?

Please tick the Box

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