Susan Sarandon endorses Mick Wallace and Clare Daly

James Cox

Irish MEPs Mick Wallace and Clare Daly have received Hollywood support in their bid for re-election to the European Parliament with a surprise endorsement from US actress Susan Sarandon.

Sarandon, 77, called the pair "voices for peace".

In a video posted online, she said: "Right now in America it's a very pro-war time and also voices that question that are being silenced and fired and being given a very, very difficult time.

"So for the last five years, when I've seen Clare Daly and Mick Wallace doing what they're doing, we can hear them around the world including in the United States, they're speaking up loud and clear for international solidarity and social justice, for peace and for the oppressed people.

"I can't tell you how much - how very important - and how much that means to those of us in other places given hope by them and what they are saying to hear that kind of truth."

She added: "There are very few voices for peace in places of power and we need them more than ever now especially with what's goin gong in Gaza.

"This June 7th, people in Ireland have a chance to vote to keep these two great MEPs in the European Parliament to continue the fight, so please don't lose that voice in Europe, I beg of you. This June, don't forget to give your number one vote to Clare Daly in Dublin, or to Mick Wallace in Ireland South.

"Thank you from me and all those voices in America that look to you for hope."

Responding to the video in a post on X, Mr Wallace said: "It's far from Hollywood actresses I was reared. But amazing to receive endorsement and support from the great Susan Sarandon.

"She has a great politics and an even better heart. Don't believe everything the Irish Times tells you about me. Listen to Susan. VOTE MICK WALLACE NO.1."

Mr Wallace Ms Daly have been criticised for their controversial views on Russia's invasion of Ukraine since president Vladimir Putin started the war on February 24th.

The Independents 4 Change members were among 13 MEPs to vote against a European Parliament resolution condemning Russian aggression, which also argued in favour of the speeding up of Ukraine’s candidacy for EU membership.

While both Mr Wallace and Ms Daly have said Russia's invasion is wrong, they have accused the United States and Nato of being just as responsible as the Kremlin for the ongoing war.