The Government is expected to discuss and approve their nominee for the next EU Commissioner post, with strong speculation pointing to Finance Minister Michael McGrath being nominated. Under the coalition agreement, it is Fianna Fáil’s turn to put forward a name for the senior EU position, although Tánaiste Mícheál Martin has not yet confirmed his decision.
With negotiations underway for key EU jobs following the recent European election, there is a desire to have Ireland’s nominee decided before a European Council meeting later this week. Current Commissioner Mairead McGuinness holds the Financial Stability, Financial Services, and Capital Markets Union portfolio, stepping in after Phil Hogan’s resignation as EU Trade Commissioner.
If McGrath is nominated on Tuesday, there may be a delay before he formally begins the job due to the need for the next Commission president’s confirmation. Speculation for McGrath’s replacement as Minister for Finance includes Darragh O’Brien, Norma Foley, and Dara Calleary, with Jack Chambers potentially in line for a senior ministry role after being appointed as Fianna Fáil Deputy Leader.
Read: EU Commissioner appointment set to reshape coalition