Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The President of the Commission, to whom I have spoken on this matter, confirms that he is not in a position to consider the composition of the next Commission until the High Representative is appointed. Under the new arrangements established by the Lisbon Treaty, the High Representative will be a vice-president of the Commission. Until that matter becomes clear, which must be dealt with at a European Council meeting yet to be fixed, the President of the Commission is not in a position to make any arrangements.

With regard to our own situation, I have spoken to the President of the Commission. The matter is under consideration and is being finalised. I will discuss it further with him this week.

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