The announcement by Barroso came only one day after the two designates had been named by their countries (see EurActiv, 25 October 2006). Barroso said: “I am convinced that Ms. Kuneva has the professional and political qualities, as well as the personal commitment and necessary experience to accomplish all the tasks which I am proposing to make her responsible for.” Kuneva, who has an extensive background in environmental and European issues, will be in charge of consumer protection.
Markos Kyprianou, who is currently commissioner for public health, food safety and consumer protection congratulated Kuneva and underlined that he “agreed that consumer protection could be a portfolio on its own” and said that he thought it was “particularly appropriate for a new commissioner”.
Consultations for the Romanian commissioner candidate are still ongoing. The Romanian candidate Varujan Vosganian and his portfolio are yet to be confirmed. According to some, the portfolio of immigration might be assigned to him.
The European Parliament will arrange hearings for the two designated commissioners at the end of November 2006. The Parliament is to vote on the new commissioners on 4 January 2007.
