Fine Gael: Minister filled €165k post after phone call

GREEN Minister Eamon Ryan is under attack for appointing a new energy regulation enforcer without holding an open application process for the lucrative post.

The Commissioner for Energy Regulation job carries a salary of €165,000 and was handed out by the minister after a phone conversation and without a formal interview process for candidates, Fine Gael insisted.

The party’s energy spokesperson, Simon Coveney, said the decision went against Mr Ryan’s “moral stance” on such issues when in opposition.