Mairead McGuinness nominated for EU Commissioner's role

Meath-based MEP Mairead McGuinness is one of the two names being sent to Brussels as a replacement for the former European Commissioner, Phil Hogan, who resigned over the ‘Golfgate’ affair at Clifden.

The cabinet has nominated her and the former economic advisor to Enda Kenny as Taoiseach, Andrew McDowell, following a week of speculation.

The President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, had requested both a man and a woman be nominated. She will interview both candidates next week, and make her opinion known to the Government, who then have to make an official nomination.

In a statement, the Government said it believes that both nominees are "candidates of the highest calibre, possessing the necessary competence, independence and European commitment to serve in the role of Commissioner with distinction".

It said that while the allocation of roles within the Commission is for President von der Leyen to decide, the Government "firmly believes that both candidates have demonstrated that they have experience, skills and capacity to serve and to make a contribution in the most demanding roles".

Taoiseach Micheál Martin later said Ms McGuinness is strongly recognised for her contribution to European politics, while Mr McDowell has "significant attributes to bring to the table".

Mr Martin added: "Given the quality of the candidates that have been put forward, I believe we could get a portfolio of substance and quality."

Ms McGuinness said in a statement: "It's a great honour to be nominated as a candidate for a role that is so influential in the lives of citizens and businesses across Ireland and the entire EU.

Ms McGuinness, who lives in Drumconrath, has been a member of the European Parliament since 2004. She represents the North West constituency of Ireland.

Prior to becoming an MEP, she was a well-known journalist, broadcaster and commentator and hosted Ear to the Ground on RTÉ.

She was elected first vice-president of the European Parliament in January 2017 and was re-elected to the post in July 2019.

Mr McDowell is former chief economic advisor to the government from 2011 to 2016, working closely with then taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Until recently, he had been vice president of the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg.

RTE News is reporting that should Ms McGuinness be appointed EU Commissioner, Louth Fine Gael Cllr Colm Markey will take over her MEP seat for the Midlands North West constituency.