Anthony Whelan appointed as Director General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Competition

Anthony Whelan appointed as Director General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Competition

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 13 April 2026
• Last updated on: 13 April 2026

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, today (13 April) has congratulated Irish national, Anthony Whelan, on his appointment as Director General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Competition (DG COMPET).

Commenting on the appointment, Minister Byrne noted: "The position of Director General of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Competition is one of the most important, and prestigious posts, that a European Commission official can hold. This appointment is a testament to Anthony Whelan's professionalism and record of achievement, including leading negotiations on the abolition of mobile roaming charges. Irish people working for the EU have a proud history of designing policy which benefits all EU citizens, and I am sure Anthony Whelan will continue that legacy.

"The competitiveness agenda, and the drive by EU Member States to foster innovation and economic growth, is one of the most important issues facing the EU. I look forward to engaging with Anthony Whelan, over the coming months, as we deliver an Irish EU Presidency which I am confident will make a positive impact on the EU and its 450 million citizens."

Mr Whelan's appointment comes on the back of recent good news for Ireland's representation among the staff of the EU Institutions.

Minister Byrne commented: "The 'A Career for EU' strategy, launched by me in May 2022, aimed to increase Irish representation in the EU's institutions and agencies, so it is very welcome to see another Irish national taking on a leading EU position."

Minister Byrne continued: "Ireland is on track to be appropriately represented within the EU institutions within the next 12 months. Ireland has 43 permanent officials at the key entry grades in the European Commission, up from 30 in 2022. Some 51 Irish civil servants now serve as Seconded National Experts to the European Commission alone, and Ireland accounts for almost 1 in every 20 SNEs, nearly three times our population share."

ENDS

Press Office

13 April 2026