Wed Sep 18 01:30:00 UTC 2024: ## New EU Justice Commissioner: Ireland’s McGrath Takes the Reins

**Brussels:** Former Irish Finance Minister Michael McGrath has been appointed as the new EU Justice Commissioner, marking a significant move for Ireland in the European political landscape. McGrath’s appointment comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed the portfolios for her new team, which will guide EU policy for the next five years.

While von der Leyen was successful in maintaining a near-equal gender balance among the commissioners, her ability to influence portfolio assignments was limited by member states’ right to nominate their own candidates. This resulted in Ireland’s government sticking with McGrath, despite von der Leyen’s lobbying for a female nominee, ultimately leading to a 40/60 female-male split in the commission.

McGrath’s portfolio, while important, is considered middle-ranking, offering him the opportunity to establish a strong presence within the EU. His main responsibilities will include upholding the rule of law and judicial independence, putting him in direct conflict with countries like Hungary, known for undermining these principles. He will also oversee consumer rights, privacy, and the fight against misinformation, issues that are of immediate concern to Irish citizens.

This appointment marks a significant step for von der Leyen, who, despite facing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, has solidified her position as the EU’s leader. However, her team faces a daunting task in the coming years, including supporting Ukraine, strengthening European defense, and competing with global powers like the US and China.

The absence of a strong Franco-German alliance, a crucial factor in the success of previous commissions, poses a challenge for von der Leyen as she navigates these complex issues.

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