A former MEP for the Midlands-North West says it is important that the government sends forward two names for the the role of European Commissoner.
It's expected that the leaders of the three coalition parties will agree to submit two nominees for the position at the request of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The three leaders have resumed their discussions on candidates later this afternoon.
A spokesperson for the European Commission President has re-stated her desire for gender balance among her top team.
Marian Harkin who is now a TD for Sligo Leitrim North Roscommon and South Donegal says however, all three names linked with the role, Simon Coveneny, Frances Fitzgerald and Mairead McGuinness have extensive political experience, but perhaps Simon Coveney has the edge.
