Ireland’s nominee to the European Commission Michael McGrath has been named as EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law.

The Law Society today offered its congratulations to Michael McGrath on his appointment.

Law Society President Barry MacCarthy said “The Law Society welcomes the appointment of Michael McGrath as EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law. 

“This is a significant appointment for both Ireland and the European Union, reflecting our role as a proactive member state dedicated to upholding the fundamental principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of rights, which are all values shared by the Law Society. 

“At a time when democracy, justice and the rule of law face particular challenges in different parts of the world, including on our own continent, the Law Society is especially proud of the fact that this important portfolio is held by an Irish person who places great store in those most fundamental principles. 

"As the largest common law jurisdiction in the EU, Ireland’s legal system brings important diversity to this role; it is even more important to have this perspective in the post-Brexit landscape.”

'Every success'

“We wish Mr McGrath every success in his new role,”  he said. 

The appointment of the new commission was announced by the body’s president Ursula von der Leyen this morning (17 September).

She said that she would entrust the former Minister for Finance with the responsibility to take forward the European Democracy Shield, a proposal to detect, track, and delete online disinformation in co-ordination with national agencies.

Rule of law

“He will also lead our work on the rule of law, anti-corruption and consumer protection,” said von der Leyen.

The proposed new college of commissioners contains 11 women – representing 40% of the total.

The appointments announced today must now be approved by the European Parliament.

Portfolio ‘of real substance’

Commissioner-designate McGrath said that he was “honoured” to be proposed for the justice portfolio and looked forward to engaging with the European Parliament ahead of the hearings for the new commission in the weeks ahead.

“The portfolio is a vitally important one for Europe: protecting our democratic values, rule of law, and the rights of our citizens is fundamental to the future development of the EU and of the single market.

“It is the first time that Ireland will hold this portfolio and is a recognition of our standing as a country with a strong democratic and open society,” McGrath said, adding that he was also pleased to have been given responsibility for consumer rights.

Welcoming the proposed appointment, Taoiseach Simon Harris described the justice portfolio as “one of real substance and importance”.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin also welcomed the announcement, saying that McGrath would serve on the commission “with great energy and diligence”.