Euro-Site-Manager | Insight Brussels

The current Research and Science Commissioner from Slovenia, Janez Potocnik, has been named by José Manuel Barroso, European Commission President, as the new head of the Environment directorate general, subject to approval by the European Parliament. This took place on Friday 27 November 2009.

In this new position, Janez Potocnik will be responsible for the European Environment Agency. Climate Policy will become a separate directorate general for which Connie Hedegaard, Denmark’s Energy Minister, is nominated as future Commissioner. As Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship and Commission Vice President, Antonio Tajani, currently Italy’s Transport Commissioner, is designated. Foreign Minister Karel de Gucht from Belgium will be responsible for the Trade directorate general.

The European Parliament (EP) must approve the new Commission taking office for a term until 31 October 2014. Individual hearings before EP committees will take place from 11-19 January 2010, and the EP plenary vote on the new Commission will take place on 26 January 2010. If the approval is given, the Commission will be appointed by the European Council for the new term.