Ireland’s candidate for the European Commission, Michael McGrath, has received confirmation following a three-hour hearing earlier today, according to RTÉ News sources.
It is reported that the primary political factions have backed his nomination for the role of European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law.
Only two political factions, the far-right Europe of Sovereign Nations and the Patriots group, chose not to endorse Mr. McGrath.
This support results in a two-thirds majority from the main committee coordinators.
Safeguarding Minors from Online Threats
Mr. McGrath informed MEPs that he would emphasize protecting minors from online dangers if confirmed as Commissioner for Justice.
He stated that in the ongoing geopolitical landscape, “we must value and uphold the principles that have made the EU a symbol of peace, tolerance, and hope, which include democracy, respect for fundamental rights, and the rule of law.”
Addressing MEPs from various committees, he honored Nobel Prize laureate John Hume, “one of the politicians who influenced me during my early years … a peacemaker, statesman, and a proud member of this Parliament for 25 years.”
“I assure you that in my endeavors, your voices and those of the people you represent will be acknowledged.”
Mr. McGrath commenced his opening remarks by extending condolences to Spanish committee members “over the tragic loss you have endured in recent days in Valencia. Our hearts are heavy.”
He informed MEPs that “we must safeguard the integrity of electoral processes and the security of election candidates against escalating threats to their safety.”
“It is crucial to shield election candidates from undue pressure, especially women, who often face abuse that is exacerbated by misogynistic stereotypes.”
He articulated that the rule of law is “a vital safeguard for the operation of our democracies, the protection of individual rights, and the prosperity of our societies and economies, serving as the foundation of a union characterized by equality, opportunity, and social fairness.”
Mr. McGrath characterized EU democracy as an “ongoing evolution.”
He noted that threats to the European elections in June included disinformation, threats, and sophisticated manipulative techniques utilizing AI.
“The absence of significant disruptions during the elections was impressive, although it was not a coincidence,” he remarked.
He indicated that under his authority, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office would be bolstered, particularly in addressing cross-border serious crime.
“I will strive to enhance collaboration among the EPPO, Eurojust, Europol, and Olaf [the EU’s anti-fraud agency].”
Mr. McGrath also stated that if confirmed as commissioner, he would push for a Digital Fairness Act aimed at strengthening consumer protection, especially for children.
“I want to ensure that consumers are not exploited for commercial gain, that social media influencers do not mislead our consumers, and that our children are adequately safeguarded online.”
“I will tackle dark patterns, marketing from social media influencers, the addictive design of digital products, and unfair personalization practices.”
He committed to prioritizing the safety of minors against harmful content and practices in online gaming.
Mr. McGrath highlighted that safeguarding journalists would be a core aspect of his role, pledging to revise current legislation such as the European Media Freedom Act to protect journalists, including advocating for the swift implementation of the anti-SLAPP safeguard, which protects media from abusive lawsuits.
When questioned by a far-right MEP about actions against Islamic terrorism and ensuring “freedom of thought, freedom of speech, equality between women and men,” alongside ensuring no EU funds support “NGOs or universities tied to radical Islamic organizations [like] Hamas,” Mr. McGrath replied that “respect for our values is applicable to all: democracy, equality, rule of law, freedom, human rights, and respect for human dignity. These are non-negotiable.”
He emphasized that freedom of expression is not limitless.
“An appropriate balance must be established to ensure we do not tolerate hateful language or actions that cross into criminal territory, which can impact EU citizens regarding the funding of NGOs and various groups.”
Responding to a query from a right-wing Polish MEP regarding EU rule of law measures taken specifically against central and eastern European member states, Mr. McGrath expressed his intention to approach the topic with a “fresh pair of eyes.”
“[Impartiality] is crucial to our mission. We must apply the full rule of law toolbox with fairness. I approach this without preconceptions, making decisions based purely on evidence and observed facts.”
However, he noted: “No one should be misled. I am prepared to act decisively to ensure the rule of law is upheld by every EU member state.”
Pathway for Ireland to Join EPPO
In response to a Spanish center-right MEP pointing out Ireland’s significant exemptions from EU justice and home affairs laws, Mr. McGrath acknowledged this fact.
He conveyed Ireland’s intention to join the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) before the Irish presidency of the EU in 2026.
“I would also highlight Ireland’s recent approach concerning various files: the E-Evidence Regulation and the transfer of criminal proceedings regulation.”
“Wherever feasible, [the Government will] align the Irish common law system to opt into existing and future instruments for criminal justice cooperation.”
“I will encourage this, as I know Ireland is now progressing towards joining the EPPO, and I look forward to collaborating with the Irish authorities to ensure this task is accomplished.”
When asked by a Belgian MEP about the possibility of uniformly criminalizing rape across the EU, Mr. McGrath noted that while the Violence Against Women Directive has been adopted, it was not feasible to include a mutually agreed definition of rape in that legislation.
He stated that the European Commission can promote member states to adopt the concept of consent in their national definitions of rape during the directive transposition.
“We would advocate for this. Rape is a heinous crime, and consistency and uniformity across member states are essential.”
He mentioned considering adding gender-based violence to the list of trans-European crimes.
Digital Fairness Act
Mr. McGrath was queried about addressing allegedly addictive features aimed at minors online, like endless scrolling and auto-play videos.
He responded: “The business model of big tech…[is to] keep individuals online indefinitely, including our children, to maximize revenue from advertising on their platforms.”
“We recognize this model, and we will address it in the Digital Fairness Act, and I assure you we will, as there are harmful functionalities on these platforms impacting children, particularly during their formative years, with potentially lasting effects.”
Construction
Ireland West MEP Luke Ming Flanagan confronted Mr. McGrath about the Government’s failure to conduct market surveillance on construction products, following infringement proceedings initiated by the European Commission last spring.
Mr. Flanagan stated that the Irish Government had indicated it would “strongly defend its position” and claimed that it was “not accurate” that officials were actively performing market surveillance on construction products according to EU regulations.
“How can we trust someone from the poacher family to be a gamekeeper?” Mr. Flanagan questioned.
Mr. McGrath asserted that the Government had addressed the Commission’s infringement proceedings, and the Commission would respond accordingly.
“For me, the fundamental issue is that the necessary reforms that needed to occur are now happening in Ireland. I welcome the enactment of the Regulation of Providers of Building Works and Miscellaneous Provisions Act in 2022, which is a vital piece of legislation aimed at developing and promoting a culture of competence, good practices, and adherence to building regulations in the construction industry.”
He mentioned that this would lead to a statutory register and that the Government is “advancing the establishment of an independent building standards regulatory authority.”
Consumer Law
Mr. McGrath acknowledged that numerous EU citizens find consumer law “extremely complicated.”
He noted: “They can be overwhelmed by lengthy terms and conditions, and when they attempt to assert their rights, they encounter barriers that often lead many to give up.”
“This is why we need to ensure that at the member state level, the organizations supporting consumers in asserting their rights receive appropriate backing through member state budgets, and we will do everything possible through the EU as well.”
