The biggest hurdle has been overcome: Finance Minister Magnus Brunner (VP) was confirmed as EU Commissioner for Migration by the responsible committee of the EU Parliament on Tuesday evening. Brunner was worried about whether he could achieve the necessary two-thirds majority at the first attempt. It received the approval of the pro-European groups EPP, S&D, Renew and EKR. The Greens are said to have abstained, which is why the majority was secured. The right-wing factions ESN and “Patriots for Europe” voted against Vorarlberg.
Congratulations came from Austria on Wednesday: Chancellor Karl Nehammer (VP) wished Brunner “good luck”, European Minister Karoline Edtstadler (VP), who will no longer be represented in the next government, is looking forward to “good and close cooperation”.
The new commission will take office at the beginning of December. However, Brunner is likely to leave the government earlier; it is expected that he will turn his back on domestic politics before the next National Council meeting on November 20th. Brunner is not only a minister, but also a VP representative.
Gunther Mayr is favorite
Everything indicates that it is not a ministerial colleague who will take over Brunner’s agenda until the next government is formed, but rather a high-ranking official. The choice is said to have already fallen on the longest-serving section head in the Ministry of Finance, Gunter Mayr. The 52-year-old Tyrolean is a university professor of financial law and took over the tax section in 2012. Politically, it is seen as an advantage to entrust an official as minister during government negotiations. This is intended to ensure a sober view of the budget figures.
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**Interview with Magnus Brunner, New EU Commissioner for Migration**
**Interviewer:** Congratulations on your recent confirmation, Mr. Brunner! How do you feel about becoming the new EU Commissioner for Migration?
**Magnus Brunner:** Thank you! I’m honored and excited to take on this crucial role. The approval from the European Parliament, especially from pro-European groups, gives me confidence to move forward with my agenda.
**Interviewer:** It was noted that securing a two-thirds majority was a challenge for you. What strategies did you employ to gain the support of the different factions?
**Magnus Brunner:** I focused on building coalitions and understanding the concerns of different political groups. It was important for me to communicate my vision for a humane and effective migration policy that addresses the complexities we face in Europe today.
**Interviewer:** The Green party abstained from voting, while right-wing factions opposed your appointment. How do you plan to engage with these differing views moving forward?
**Magnus Brunner:** Dialogue is key. I intend to remain open and accessible to all parties. It’s vital to find common ground, especially on such divisive issues. I believe that by working together, we can create policies that not only serve our security needs but also uphold humanitarian values.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that you may leave your position in the Austrian government before the next National Council meeting. What are your immediate priorities as you transition into your new role?
**Magnus Brunner:** My focus will be on preparing for the upcoming challenges in migration management and understanding the current landscape. Engaging with stakeholders, including member states, NGOs, and local communities, will be at the forefront of my efforts.
**Interviewer:** who will take over your responsibilities at the Ministry of Finance, and what impact do you see this transition having?
**Magnus Brunner:** Gunter Mayr, a seasoned official with a strong background in financial law, will likely step in until a new government is formed. I believe his expertise will ensure continuity and stability in the ministry as we navigate this transition.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Brunner. We look forward to seeing your impact as EU Commissioner for Migration!
**Magnus Brunner:** Thank you for having me! I’m eager to get started and contribute positively to our shared European goals.
