MEP (FG) for Connacht-Ulster since 1979

This Parliament's contribution? It led the movement towards the establishment of a regional policy in Europe. Without the EP's political force, CAP would be wound down under pressure from GATT

Own proudest achievement? The fact that I was the first to get Northern Ireland on to the European agenda, which led to the Hagerup Report - a major statement by the EP on the importance of achieving a political settlement in the North

Frustration? That, as an MEP, it's so difficult to keep direct contact with the people who sent you here.

Absences from sessions: 57

Motions for resolution: 34

Reports: Two (plus 13 contributions)

Questions: 95

Debates: 89

Teacher's note: Under-rated. A hardworking constituency minder. Highly respected for his knowledge about agriculture, rural and regional issues. Quite conservative