European Ombudswoman Emily O’Reilly defended her mandate

Brussels, 18 December 2019 – Irish candidate Emily O’Reilly defended her position as European Ombudswoman today in the third round of voting. Last year, she strongly criticized the behavior of the Czech Commissioner Věra Jourová, saying her statement was “unwise and inadmissible”.

“We are glad that this position will continue to be held by a person who cares about ethics and points out maladministration even to a Commissioner. It is unacceptable and strictly prohibited for Commissioners and their staff and advisors to lobby for the interests of individual Member States. Sadly the head advisor of the Czech Commissioner has been convicted of such behaviour in the past,” said MEP Mikuláš Peksa, who points out the fact that Věra Jourová’s advisor, Daniel Braun, in the past advised Czech ministers on how to deal with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).

O’Reilly proved her independence not only in relation to the behaviour of the Czech Commissioner. “She rightly criticised former Commission president José Manuel Barroso for his revolving doors move to Goldman Sachs. She was also vocal on the intransparent appointment of Jean-Claude Juncker’s Head of Cabinet as Secretary-General of the Commission and criticised the intransparency of the EU Council. This may be the reason for why today’s vote was very tight,” said German Pirate MEP Patrick Breyer. “Congratulations Ms. O’Reilly – please keep up the fight for transparency and containing lobbyism.”

Photo by WeAreCEU