NO PROPOSAL has been made that Ireland should share a place on the European Commission with Britain, Minister of State for European Affairs Dick Roche has said.
He was responding to speculation in the European media that the French government was proposing that in future member states with "similar cultural and linguistic circles", such as Ireland and Britain, should have a single EU commissioner.
"The speculation that the position regarding the new Commission composition is under discussion is just that - speculation," said Mr Roche yesterday.
He cited a statement from the French foreign ministry that press reports about the future composition of the commission were "without foundation" and it was premature to engage in speculation.
"The French have also pointed out, correctly, that in the event of the Lisbon Treaty not being ratified, the Nice Treaty applies," said Mr Roche.
He said the Nice Treaty provided for a commission of fewer than the number of member states and a decision would have to be made on that matter by unanimity.
"What this does illustrate is the very difficult position that will apply when it comes to appointing the EU Commission that takes office from 2009.
"The reality is that under the Nice Treaty, under which we are operating at the moment, the commission must be reduced to less than 27 when it takes office late next year," said Mr Roche.
"What is ironic is that under the Lisbon Treaty we were provided with certainty and, very importantly, with flexibility," he added.
