The man in line to take over as European Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski from Poland, has secured the approval of MEPs at the second attempt.

MEPs were less than impressed at Wojciechowski’s performance at his first hearing. He spoke through halting English and many felt his answers were vague.

On Tuesday, he addressed MEPs in his native language and was more assured on how he would approach CAP reform.

Internal convergence

In his written answers, Wojciechowski said he was “favourable to reaching in due time full internal convergence”. Just seven countries have entitlements partly based on historical production, of which Ireland is one.

On eco-schemes, Wojciechowski said he supported the European Commission’s proposal for a 20% budget. For Ireland, this would equate to approximately €242m.