Those worthies who consider themselves suitable candidates to replace Pee Flynn as Ireland's next EU Commissioner - and the hour of reckoning is nigh - should consider that not only have times changed in relation to accountability in Europe, following the recent parliamentary revolt over cronyism, but they could face a grilling here similar to what they will encounter in
Europe. FG Senator Paul Coghlan has asked Bertie Ahern to present the Government nominee to an Oireachtas Committee before finalising the appointment. Coghlan says it is strange that Commission nominees will be subject to the approval, and even veto, of the European Parliament but not to our own parliament. This democratic deficit should be corrected, the senator says, as we need to know the nominee's view on key issues. Seanad leader Donie Cassidy said he would tell the Taoiseach and he was sure it would all be taken seriously.