McCreevy confirmed as nomination of European Commissioner

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern announced this evening that Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevy will be the Government's nominee for appointment to the next European Commission.

"Charlie McCreevy has been an outstanding Minister for Finance and has made a huge, personal contribution to Ireland's economic and social development over recent years," the Taoiseach said.

"I am delighted that he has accepted this nomination since he is uniquely qualified to make a major contribution to the work of the Commission and to the development of the European Union in the challenging period ahead" he added.

The Taoiseach said that Mr. McCreevy enjoys wide respect around Europe through his involvement in Ecofin and the Euro Group, especially as a result of his very successful chairmanship during the Presidency.

"With his wide Ministerial experience and record of achievement, I fully expect that Charlie McCreevy will receive a significant portfolio in the new Commission", the Taoiseach said.

"I will be discussing this matter with President-Designate Barroso in the coming days", he added.

"I am delighted that Charlie McCreevy has agreed to represent Ireland in the next Commission and I know that he will be as successful in that role as he has been in steering the Irish economy over recent years", the Taoiseach said.

The Taoiseach also congratulated and thanked the outgoing Irish Commissioner, David Byrne, for his work and record of distinguished achievement over his term of office.

Mr. McCreevy will continue as M6inister for Finance until the Cabinet reshuffle in the Autumn.