Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

No, it does not arise because while the position was mentioned as a possibility for consideration were it to be of interest, no interest was indicated. As I have stated already, the question of Máire Geoghegan-Quinn's cabinet is a matter for her. I was supportive of any Member who wished to be considered or who indicated an interest but I emphasise the point that Máire Geoghegan-Quinn would only be in a position to consider any membership of her cabinet after approval by the European Parliament. That important stage must be conducted in the same way in which Máire Geoghegan-Quinn's approval by the Parliament was established. She was not in a position to make any decisions about her cabinet until she was approved by the Parliament.

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