Since joining what was then the European Economic Community in 1973, Ireland has experienced a number of benefits, one of them being increased employment opportunities for its citizens within European institutions. With scarce job prospects within their native land, several individuals thrived one of which were David O’Sullivan and Catherine Day, both ascending to the rank of secretary-general of the commission – the topmost role in the Brussels administration.
There exists a large network of Irish officials spread across various departments and agencies, acting as a crucial link between the Irish government and the commission. They operate both as a preliminary alert system and as a means of allowing Ireland to influence policy-making at its initial stages.
However, it is cause for concern that approximately one-third of these officials are due to retire within the next two years. There seems to be a shortage of younger Irish officials waiting in the wings to fill these spots. Paradoxically, this can be attributed to Ireland’s own progress in this area. The significant changes post-EEC membership means there are now more appealing career prospects closer to home.
Nevertheless, the Department of Foreign Affairs is determined to boost the number of Irish nationals employed within the EU’s institutions and agencies. Efforts are centred on encouraging more applications and equipping potential candidates with the skills required to succeed in recruitment competitions. The target has been set to secure an additional 50 starting or higher level positions by 2030.
There is room for further initiatives, particularly in assisting officials temporarily assigned to Brussels transition into permanent positions. Ireland could learn from other countries that invest significantly in building a network of their nationals working within the commission as a part of their permanent representation in Brussels. Currently, the Irish approach appears to evolve naturally, which may have been beneficial in the past, but in a European Union of 27 member states, a smaller country like Ireland must invest more effort to maintain a significant influence.