Government stability defended as reshuffle expected after EU nominee named

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, PA

The Government coalition has defended its stability as a limited reshuffle is expected following the announcement of Finance Minister Michael McGrath as Ireland’s nominee for EU Commissioner.

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have both said a “high calibre” person will be announced as Ireland’s EU Commissioner nominee after Cabinet meets on Tuesday morning.

Simon Harris said he also expected any vacancy that arises at Cabinet because of the appointment to be filled on Tuesday.

The nomination of Mr McGrath by Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin was discussed at a meeting of the three Government coalition leaders on Monday evening.

The move is to be announced officially at noon on Tuesday.

Mr Harris said that although the EU Commissioner nominee is made by Fianna Fail under the terms of the programme for government, it was not “a party political” position.

“For me, this isn’t about tribal politics or party politics or partisan politics, just by putting our best foot forward and about sending the best person that we can to the European Commission.

“I’m very satisfied that the name the government will nominate today is somebody of a very high calibre, of high standing, of huge ability and somebody that I look forward to supporting in every practical way I can as Taoiseach.”

Mr McGrath will succeed Fine Gael-nominated commissioner Mairead McGuinness.

The departure of the Cork South Central TD from Government will necessitate at least a mini-reshuffle of the Fianna Fail-held portfolios.

Asked when the vacancy at Cabinet would be filled, Mr Harris said: “It would be prudent to fill that vacancy immediately and I expect any vacancy that may or may not arise today at Cabinet to be filled today.”

Speaking before Cabinet, Mr Martin said a ministerial reshuffle would not affect the stability of the government, as the coalition works “collectively” – “particularly” in relation to the Budget.

“That’s the normal flow that happens in the aftermath of an election. We have a reservoir of ability, of talented people who can step in and take on new roles.”