John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I thank Senator Brian Hayes for agreeing, as Leader of the Opposition, to take all stages of the Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2004 today.

Senators referred to the presidency of the European Commission. We have been extremely impressed by the work done by Mr. Pat Cox as MEP and as President of the European Parliament. As he retires as MEP for Munster, we wish him well in his future endeavours. I am sure his constituents will miss him. I do not doubt that he would make an excellent President of the European Commission. I would like him to be appointed to the post because he has all the qualities that one would hope for. Those of us who were fortunate to attend the accession function in Dublin Castle will be aware that he gave a tour de force performance at the press conference afterwards, accompanied by the Taoiseach and the current President of the European Commission, Mr. Prodi. I would like him to be appointed to the post. I am sure the matter will be discussed as the Taoiseach visits the capitals of the EU member states to discuss the proposed EU constitution.

I would like to add that Mr. David Byrne has been an excellent Commissioner. He was denigrated when he was appointed as Commissioner on the basis that it was not a job at all, but it has proven to be an important job. He has fulfilled his remit extremely well.