Minister Dermot Ahern Welcomes New European Commission Appointee

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern T.D., today welcomed the appointment of Catherine Day as Secretary-General of the European Commission, where she will replace David O' Sullivan who becomes the Commission's Director General for Trade.

Minister Ahern said: “Both Catherine Day and David O' Sullivan are outstanding European public servants.  Throughout their careers they have served the collective interest of all the Member States with integrity and consummate professionalism.

A strong and effective European Commission remains central in enabling the Union to respond to the needs of our citizens and the regional and global challenges we face and Ireland has always assigned the highest value to the Commission's role as a fair and balanced champion of the European interest.

The decision to appoint Catherine Day as Secretary General, the highest official-level position within the European Commission, is a reflection of her proven abilities and the depth of her professional experience.  Anyone who knows her qualities and track record will understand the vote of confidence placed in her today.  She will bring energy, judgement and vision to her new task at the heart of the European Commission.  I, and my colleagues in Government and our officials, look forward to working closely with her in the years ahead.”

Minister Ahern added: “David O'Sullivan has been a first class Secretary General, and has played a key role during testing years for the Union and Commission.  His assistance and advice during our Presidency were particularly helpful. He will now have a central part to play in the coming period as the World Trade Organisation negotiations reach their crucial stage.  We look forward to working closely with him in his important new role.

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9th November 2005