Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Lisbon Treaty provides for the creation of two major new posts: the President of the European Council and the High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy. These posts will bring greater coherence and continuity to the work of the EU, particularly in its external dimensions. The President of the European Council will chair that body, driving forward its work and ensuring continuity while endeavouring to facilitate cohesion and consensus within the Council.

Both these new posts must now be filled as the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by all member states was completed this month. The Lisbon Treaty will therefore come into force on 1 December, less than two weeks from now.

The Swedish Presidency is consulting bilaterally with member states regarding these posts and has convened a special meeting of the European Council to consider these two appointments. The Taoiseach will attend this meeting tomorrow evening, 19 November.

A declaration attached to the Lisbon Treaty provides that, in filling these posts, due account be taken of the need to respect the geographical and demographic diversity of the Union and its member states. It is expected that other balances will also be considered, including the political affiliations of candidates. The President of the European Council will be elected by the European Council for a two and a half year term, renewable once.

The Taoiseach has discussed these appointments with the Presidency and will contribute to the collective discussion tomorrow at the European Council. This process has not been marked by intensive lobbying on behalf of individual candidates as heads of state and government are understandably concerned not to undermine whoever is eventually appointed to the post. However, the Taoiseach has made known to colleagues his high regard and support for the former Taoiseach, John Bruton, who has expressed his availability for the position of European Council President, particularly if no serving member seeks the post.

In addition, officials in my Department and in the Department of the Taoiseach have made direct approaches to their counterparts in other EU member states, to make clear our support for the candidature of Ambassador Mr. John Bruton. I have also discussed the issue with colleagues at the General Affairs and External Relations Council, confirming my support for Mr. John Bruton.

Several other well qualified people have been mentioned for this post and we await a report from the Swedish Presidency on the outcome of its soundings as to which candidate, or candidates, would appear to command the most support.

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