Dublin MEP welcomes Phil Hogan’s resignation

Irish Green MEPs have welcomed Phil Hogan’s decision to step down from his role as European Commissioner for Trade.

This follows days of speculation over his movements in Ireland and his attendance at the Clifden Oireachtas golf dinner.

Ciarán Cuffe, Green Party MEP for Dublin, said: “Phil Hogan’s resignation was necessary to rebuild the public’s confidence in the measures and guidance put in place to protect citizens from Covid-19.

“The Irish public has made huge sacrifices to comply with health guidelines and it is important that public figures respect these rules too. President Ursula von der Leyen has done the right thing by holding Mr Hogan to account for his actions.”

Grace O’Sullivan, Green Party MEP for Ireland South, added: “I look forward to welcoming a new Commissioner to Brussels. I am confident the government will choose an able replacement who will work with integrity in the interests of Ireland and the EU as a whole.”