It seldom happens in everyday life that we are fortunate enough to have the right person in the right place at exactly the right time. It is an even rarer occasion in the world of politics. However, with Phil Hogan as Commissioner for Agriculture, there is no doubt that Irish and European farmers have the right man in the right place at the right time.

Through a combination of political nous, negotiation skills, knowledge of the industry and work ethic, he has established himself as a key player within the college of Commissioners. In doing so, he has significantly raised the standing and importance of the agricultural portfolio within the EU. It has yielded dividends in recent trade talks with Japan. We hope for the same positive outcome from the Mercosur and CAP negotiations.