Romanian to take over as EU farm chief

Dacian Cioloş will officially take up his post in February 2010, subject to approval by the European Parliament, European Commission President Manuel Barroso announced today.

Mr Ciolos will replace the Dane, Marianne Fischer Boel, who is standing down after completing one five-year term.

The Romanian currently holds a senior position within the Commission’s Agriculture and Rural Development department.

The NFU has welcomed the appointment. It pointed out that Mr Cioloş was one of very few Commissioner candidates with agricultural experience.

This will be vital when looking at the agenda ahead especially in terms of the Future of CAP debate, acting NFU director general Martin Haworth said.

“Mr Cioloş will pick up the five-year mandate at a crucial time for our farming and growing members, with major decisions soon to be made on the future structure of the Common Agriculture Policy and the EU budget,” he said.

“For the NFU in Brussels and at home it is vital to engage with all Directorates General, from trade, consumer safety, the environment and of course agriculture.”

NFU Scotland chief executive James Withers said: “Interestingly, we have a new member state in the agricultural seat for the first time and that will certainly bring a different perspective to the job.  

“We have been fortunate enough to have a Commissioner for the last five years who has had a great grasp of agricultural issues and the practical challenges farmers face.

“NFUS enjoyed a good working relationship with Mariann Fischer Boel, and hope that we can continue to have equally close ties with one of the most powerful figures in agriculture.  The new Commissioner also brings with him agricultural experience having been farming Minister back home, where agriculture is obviously of huge importance.”

The Romanians were the first to throw their hat into the ring for the Agriculture job at the start of September.

European Parliament hearings for proposed Commissioners are scheduled to take place from January 11 2010.

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