McGrath likely to be named Ireland’s next European commissioner

It is felt that this would allow Mr McGrath to oversee the budget because the European Commission does not take office until November.

However, Mr Martin told a meeting of Fianna Fáil TDs, senators, and MEPs on Wednesday that both the name of the new commissioner and “whatever other changes are necessary” will be made next week. 

Some in the party took this as confirmation that Mr McGrath or Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue will be put forward for the €310,000/year position. 

It could also see a small reshuffle at Cabinet level, with new Fianna Fáil deputy leader Jack Chambers and former Agriculture Minister Dara Calleary among those touted as possible replacements for Mr McGrath. 

However, it is felt that Mr Martin would be more likely to move either Norma Foley or Darragh O’Brien to the finance portfolio and put the new addition in their vacated role.

Ireland is eyeing up a trade or economic portfolio when the commissionerships are doled out by the president of the European Commission — which is looking increasingly likely to be a returning Ursula von der Leyen.

However, while Mr McGrath would be considered well capable, some in Fianna Fáil have raised concerns about “taking one of our best players off the pitch” heading into an election — even if Mr McGrath’s brother Séamus would be favoured to retain the seat after his massive 5,100-vote performance in the local elections.

Taoiseach Simon Harris was in Brussels last week to informally discuss the top jobs in Europe, with Ms von der Leyen set to be returned and former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa set to be named the new president of the European Council.

On Thursday, Mr Harris would not be drawn on who might be picked. However, he said that it was a matter for Mr Martin “in the first instance”, adding that it was important Ireland send “the best people”.

“It is really important that we send the best people to represent us in Europe, and there are many people who would make fine commissioners. Most importantly, though, is to know the identity of that person pretty quickly,” he said.