Agriculture portfolio in the European Commission is a real coup for Ireland- Deering

Fine Gael TD for Carlow/Kilkenny, Pat Deering, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the news that Carlow Kilkenny Deputy Phil Hogan is to be made European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.

“I wish to warmly congratulate Phil Hogan on his appointment as European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.

“As Vice Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture I know the importance of this portfolio to Ireland. It is no exaggeration to say that the Agri- food sector pulled Ireland through the recession and has come out the other side of our economic crisis in a strong position.

“The agriculture portfolio is a real coup for Ireland and it is incredible to think that the opposition parties are going to fight this appointment in the European Parliament. It is notable that the DUP are supporting Phil Hogan in the Parliament where Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil are not. Even more incredible is the fact that Fianna Fáil did not seek this position when they had the chance five years ago.

“Fine Gael knows the importance of agriculture to Ireland and I am delighted at this appointment. I wish Commissioner Hogan every success in his new position.”