Taoiseach welcomes re-appointment of Jose Manuel Barroso as President of the Commission

The Taoiseach today warmly welcomed the European Parliament's approval of the re-appointment of Jose Manuel Barroso as President of the Commission. The Taoiseach has consistently supported President Barroso's re-appointment.

The Taoiseach said:

'I want to warmly congratulate Jose Manuel on his re-appointment. The European Council was unanimous in its view that he is the right person to head up the Commission in what are likely to be five extremely important years for Europe. Europe needs leadership as we recover from the recent economic and financial crisis, and also to meet the international challenges such as climate change, energy security and cross border crime.

President Barroso has consistently displayed the right balance of leadership and consideration - Europe's and Ireland's interests will be well served by his leadership of a strong Commission.

I value very much my own relations with President Barroso who has been a very good friend of Ireland. I look forward to congratulating him in person tomorrow evening at the informal meeting of the European Council in Brussels.'

Ends

16th September 2009