Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 5 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 2

Written Answers. - European Commission.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

24 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the consideration, if any, he has given to the membership of the next EU Commission and particularly the Irish nominee; if he has discussed, or plans to discuss, this matter with other EU Foreign Ministers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18692/98]

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

57 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the appointment of a new European Commissioner will be made; if the matter has been discussed by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18432/98]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 57 together.

The terms of office of the present President and Members of the European Commission will expire in January 2000. The member states nominate Commission members in consultation with the nominee for President of the Commission. The nomination of the next Irish Commissioner will be a matter for the Government to consider as the date for his or her appointment approaches. The Government has not at this stage given any consideration to a candidate.