McCreevy named internal market Commissioner

Charlie McCreevy was today named as the EU’s next commissioner for the internal market and financial markets.

The appointment was announced by Commission President-elect Jose Manuel Barosso in Brussels.

Mr McCreevy will take up his post on November 1, subject to the whole Commission being approved by the European parliament.

Former finance minister McCreevy presided over the Irish economy since 1997 and the Irish economy model has since been copied by many of the new countries that joined the EU last May.

Each EU country nominates one commissioner, and Barroso’s team will have an unusually high number of heavy-hitters: three ex-prime ministers, five foreign ministers and three finance ministers.

Mr Barroso said: “I have organised this strong team to ensure we work efficiently and achieve the goals we set ourselves.

“I attach great importance to team players committed to the European general interest. Commissioners will work together and deliver real benefits for EU citizens”.

After confirmation hearings in the European Parliament, the new commission starts its five year term on November 1. It will be the first with 25 members, marking the entry of 10 new countries to the EU last May.

The Netherlands got antitrust, Germany industry, Britain's Peter Mandelson trade, France transport, Italy justice in new European Commission.