The elections to the European Parliament are receiving a lot of coverage. Ireland is sending 11 members to sit in a European Parliament of 751. We expect our representatives to punch above their weight and they usually do, but it is also important we elect people with a commitment to Europe and a keen appreciation of Ireland’s interests. Our relative influence around the critically important Commission table is proportionately much greater. Last time we gave up the opportunity to have the agricultural portfolio. It is important when the posts are allocated that the Irish nominee will carry knowledge and credibility in an area of real importance to Ireland rather than be a politically convenient appointment.