MEP Maria Walsh has welcomed the nomination of Ireland’s Michael McGrath as Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and Rule of Law, following this morning’s announcement of the next College of Commissioners.
The nomination of Luxembourg’s Christophe Hansen as Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, and Cyprus’ Costas Kadis as Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans has also been welcomed by MEP Walsh.
Maria Walsh, MEP for Midlands-North West, said:
“Michael McGrath’s nomination to the role of Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and Rule of Law is a clear indication of the esteem in which Ireland is held in upholding the rule of law and protecting democracy and citizens’ rights. As a member of the Civil Liberties, Justice & Home Affairs (LIBE) Committee, I look forward to working with Michael McGrath in his new role.
“While some may express disappointment that Ireland did not secure an economic portfolio during a mandate which will set the EU’s next Budget, we should not overlook the importance of the role. Rule of Law, judicial cooperation, policing, citizen rights and terrorism all fall under the remit of this portfolio.
“The role is particularly significant given the rollback of rights across Europe, in particular under Orban’s rule in Hungary, as well as the growing importance of cybersecurity and defence as we look towards the future of the European bloc.
“With an Irish Commissioner for Justice in situ, I would like to see the adoption of Coco’s Law by the Commission so that internet users across Europe are properly protected. GDPR and digital technologies, also within the portfolio, will be particularly relevant to Ireland given the headquartering of many social media and tech companies in Dublin.
“I am also happy to see my EPP colleague and former MEP Christophe Hansen’s nomination as Commissioner for Agriculture and Food – one of the most consequential Commission portfolios for Ireland. Our shared politics, as well as strong working relationship, will allow us to collaborate on issues of significance to Irish farmers. As the son of a farmer himself, I know that he will bring a personal understanding to his role.
“This news also clearly indicates the importance which the EPP places on the agricultural sector, while the fact that the agriculture portfolio has gone to another small country is a positive for Ireland.
“The number one thing we, as MEPs, require from the new Commissioner is regular and meaningful engagement – which was noticeably lacking at times during the last mandate. As the EU institution representing the will of the people, the Parliament must be at the forefront of Hansen’s mind.
“The power is now handed over to the Parliament as the process of approving the new Cabinet begins. The Parliament will first examine the financial records of each nominee for historical issues, conflicts of interests etc. Following this, the Parliamentary Committees will invite nominees to appear before them for questioning by MEPs.
“Given Hansen’s nomination has now been announced, one of my first actions will be to ensure the continuation of Ireland’s nitrates derogation is firmly on his agenda. My other priorities during the hearings will focus on the renegotiation and reform of the CAP, succession planning and land mobility, and removing barriers for young and female farmers.
“As part of my work on the Agriculture Committee and with fishing communities across Midlands-North West, I will also be prioritising engagement with Costas Kadis who has been nominated as Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans.”
