By Chris Ashmore

There was growing speculation in political circles this week that Pat “the Cope” Gallagher could be in line for a top Euorpean post – as a European Commissioner.

Mr. Gallagher, who was recently elected as an MEP for Ireland North-West, is well qualified for the position, having considerable experience as a TD, Minister and MEP.

Significantly, the Government can ill-afford to promote any other sitting member of the Dail to the post of commissioner – as it would run the risk of losing a by-election which could lead it to losing its majority.

Former Taoiseach John Bruton and former European Parliament President Pat Cox are likely to be in the running as well for nominations for the post of Irish Commissioner, to succeed Charlie McCreevy.

However, some Fianna Fail sources believe that Mr. Gallagher would tick all the right boxes, and that Fianna Fail will hold its seat in the Dail Donegal-South West constituency which he must now vacate. No date has been set for a by-election.

Contacted by the Finn Valley Post, Mr. Gallagher declined to comment on the speculation, but stated: “My major concern is to represent the views of the people in my constituency and to work for them in Europe and to help us through these difficult times.”

Meanwhile, he called on people in the Finn Valley to vote yes in the forthcoming referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.

“People may be concerned about other issues, be it health, social welfare or farming, but to vote no will not resolve these issues but a yes vote will help us through this recessionary period.”