The Taoiseach will announce his decision on the nomination of a new European Commissioner early next week, a spokesman said last night.

Mr Ahern is due to have final discussions on the subject with the Tanaiste today or tomorrow and will then discuss the proposed nomination by telephone with the EU President-designate, Mr Romano Prodi.

Government sources have dismissed speculation that the post may be offered to the Independent MEP, Mr Pat Cox. This was "absolute fantasy", one source said.

The likely candidates remain the Minister for Health and Children, Mr Cowen; the Minister for Agriculture and Food, Mr Walsh; the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources, Mr Woods; and the former Minister for Justice, Ms Maire Geoghegan-Quinn.