On 5 November, the European Parliament approved Michael McGrath (Fianna Fáil, IE) as the next European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law. 

McGrath was the first liberal to be quizzed by MEPs at the confirmation hearings for the candidatest to the next European Commission. 

He made clear that his priority will be to make tangible progress in tackling the EU's rule of law issues, combating organised crime, expanding the powers of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and countering foreign interference and disinformation. 

In addition, he aims to protect the fundamental rights of citizens and consumers to further develop the EU Single Market and monitor the application of the EU Charter and EU accession to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). 

“I am thrilled that McGrath expressed his willingness to foster the EU’s competitiveness. In times when Europe is lagging behind its global rivals, we must ensure our laws help our companies reach their full potential,” said ALDE Party President Svenja Hahn MEP (FDP, DE) a member of the European Parliament Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection. 

“McGrath showed that we are playing for the same team. His dedication to introduce the first-ever comprehensive EU strategy against Corruption and create a Democracy Shield are extremely crucial stepping stones in building our democracies stronger,” added Ilhan Kyuchyuk MEP, Chair of the European Parliament Committee of Legal Affairs. 

“McGrath showed that we can count on him to enhance the protection of journalists and create a vibrant climate for media pluralism,” said Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová MEP, Member of the European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.