The original text claims Eoin Drea played down Irish commissioner Michael McGrath’s new portfolio in Europe on democracy, justice, and the rule of law, insisting it was a job “nobody wanted” (“Michael McGrath’s new job in Europe shows just how far Ireland’s stock has fallen”, Opinion, September 18th). Yet, it overlooked growing threats to the EU’s fundamental principles from multiple member states and right-wing political groups.
The perspective isn’t surprising considering Drea’s link with the European People’s Party that has sheltered notorious offenders like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and others who disregard EU’s core values. McGrath’s successful handling of his portfolio will ensure EU’s continued commitment to its foundations. Economic growth and the rule of law go hand in hand.
On a contrasting note, I would like to challenge Drea’s description of the justice role handed to Michael McGrath by the European Commission’s president, Ursula von der Leyen, as an unwanted position. Contrarily, having an Irish person command the justice sector in Europe is an honour and carries weight, especially with the forthcoming Irish presidency of EU in 2026.
During my tenure at the justice directorate of the European Commission in Brussels as a national expert, and currently in the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in Luxembourg, I still find connections to McGrath’s demanding EU justice role.
I dismiss Mr Drea’s final statement that Ireland is the butt of a joke. The role of justice is significant and noteworthy in any nation’s system, not to mention the privilege and benefits it fetches for Ireland at the EU level.
Indeed, it is a shrewd move by Ms von der Leyen, as one only appreciates the extent of Ireland’s disengagement from EU justice initiatives or delay in implementing them once involved in an EU role. For instance, how many of us are aware that subsequent to Poland and Sweden affiliating with the EPPO at the end of this year, only EU members Ireland, Hungary, and Denmark will be isolated from the EPPO?
In his fresh position, Mr McGrath must enhance the EPPO, tasked with investigating and charging fraud against the EU budget.
We all carry around certain preconceptions and Ireland has, no doubt, failed to seize some EU opportunities in the past few years. However, on the whole, our reputation remains strong “in Europe” and this European justice appointment is an incredible achievement for Ireland. Sincerely, Joseph Maguire, Luxembourg.