Tánaiste Micheál Martin of Fianna Fáil has implied that the party’s four MEPs, namely Barry Andrews, Barry Cowen, Billy Kelleher, and Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, might re-evaluate their decision regarding whether they would back Ursula von der Leyen in her bid to remain as the president of the European Commission. Notably, the Irish government endorses Ms von der Leyen’s return, but the aforementioned MEPs previously agreed they wouldn’t support her.
This predicament arises due to her perceived unstinting backing of Israel, especially following the events of October 7th where Hamas executed attacks. Unsettlingly, this may determine a less influential role for former finance minister, Michael McGrath, in the forthcoming commission if von der Leyen’s proposition is voted down.
However, Martin emphasised that a couple of important events have transpired since the election. Firstly, Fianna Fáil, as members of the Renew/Alde group, EPP (European People’s Party), and the Socialist group, have reached a consensus, establishing Ursula von der Leyen as the unanimous choice of the EU Council. Another development is the Government nominating Mr McGrath to serve as Ireland’s commissioner.
Upon being asked if he expects the Fianna Fáil MEPs to publicly endorse Ms von der Leyen, Martin replied that he respects their views and anticipates that they will review their position and further discuss some of the emerging issues with their wider European party before casting their votes. There was no comment from the MEPs when attempts to reach them were made on Friday.