Irish EC Commissioner appointment
Bruton and Birmingham pressed the Tánaiste to explain the delay in naming Ireland’s Commissioner. He said the matter was being handled responsibly and in confidence, and that Delors would consider nominations globally; the Chair then moved to the next question.
Why can the Government not make up their mind about who is to be Ireland's EC Commissioner?
Comment on this
The Deputy is light years away from their thinking. As President Delors rightly said, this is a matter of no urgency. It is a matter which he will consider in global terms when all the names are to hand; that is it, no more, no less.
Comment on this
Does the Tánaiste not think this is a fairly important job and that the people should know that they are getting it in reasonable time?
Comment on this
May I ask the Tánaiste what help he requires? If he wants help perhaps he should ask for it. Why can he not make up his mind?
Comment on this
The very remarks being made by Deputy Bruton are not helpful and debase the whole coinage of the matter. We are dealing with this in a responsible manner with the Commission and we will deal in a responsible manner in particular with the President of the Commission with whom we have outstandingly good relations as Deputy Bruton is aware. The matter is being handled in a responsible manner.
Comment on this
In relation to the appointment of a commissioner, on previous occasions the Tánaiste has told us that some restructuring of the Commission is expected and that the Government's position is that they are carefully monitoring and observing. May I ask him why it is that other countries have found is wise to appoint their commissioners so much earlier? Why do we seem to know much more about it than every other country, many of them more influential and powerful that we are?
Comment on this
Because we happen to be a very important and respected Administration who respect the Commission's confidences and they respect our confidences. There is a mutual continuing rapport between this Government and President Delors. We know exactly what is happening and we are telling him before we tell you.
