Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

First, I have indicated my support to President Barroso in respect of his reappointment as President of the Commission. I believe he has been an effective President of the Commission and I support his candidacy. Second, it is envisaged that the method of appointment of the Commission will be proceeded with under the Swedish Presidency. It is envisaged that the Commission will be appointed on the conclusion of the tenure of the current Commission. Obviously, the question of the appointment of the President of the Commission is an important part of that process, because once appointed, he or she then will take on the role of working out the cabinet arrangements for his or her Commission. The question of President Barroso's appointment at this Council is a matter that is under discussion at present and is one that I would support.

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