MEP Jim Higgins is a member of the Fine Gael Party in Ireland and the European People’s Party in the EU. His work in the Parliament focuses on reaching out to European citizens to foster engagement and involvement in European affairs. Additionally, he actively supports the improvement of better treatment for the mentally ill via the EU Mental Health Treatment and Strategy, as well as to increase funds to end to the problem of social isolation for those afflicted with mental illnesses. He is also has a particular interest in tackling the growing problem of rising obesity through education on healthier eating and facilitate easier patient access to cross-border healthcare. Recently, he spoke at the launch of the European Epilepsy Day in Strasbourg to raise awareness for sufferers of Epilepsy as he wants to reduce the treatment gap for people with this condition.