European Commissioner Mr David Byrne, was today awarded the Aer Rianta/European Movement European of the Year Award.
European Movement Chairman, Mr Alan Gillis paid tribute to Mr Byrne’s achievement, which took into account the turning of his portfolio for Health and Consumer Protection into one of the most pivotal roles of the European Commission.
Last year Mr Byrne presented a White Paper on food safety to the European Commission in response to the BSE crisis and was responsible for tackling health issues relating to tobacco and genetically modified foods.
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European Commissioner David Byrne, recipient of the Aer Rianta/European Movement European of the Year Award.
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Presenting the award today, the Taoiseach and president of the European Movement, Mr Bertie Ahern, congratulated the organisation for its on-going role in promoting discussion on European issues, particularly in light of enlargement of the European Union.
Mr Gillis said work, such as that done by Mr Byrne, was important in light of on-coming EU enlargement and said "the involvement of Irish people in all areas of European activity, both present and future, is essential to ensure the success of the enlargement process, not only for ourselves but for all Europeans".
The European Movement is a voluntary and independent organisation and created the award in 1988 for Irish people who play a significant role in various European areas.
Previous winners include former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds (1993), Ms Adi Roche (1995) and MEP Mrs Mary Banotti (1997).