Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Taoiseach for his support for an Irish candidate in respect of the presidency of the European Council. He stated he intends to travel to Brussels for the meeting which will resolve that. I have an internal list from Europe, which indicates at least 22 of the 27 member states have nominated their personnel for commissionerships. They are currently engaged in serious lobbying for a range of positions. When will the Taoiseach be in a position to announce the name of the nominee for Irish Commissioner, in view of the fact that 22 of the 27 member states are already engaged in serious lobbying? Would it not be appropriate to make the announcement as soon as possible?

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