V-P Šefčovič takes temporary charge of health and consumer portfolio

European Commission President José Manuel Barroso has entrusted the health and consumer protection portfolio to Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič on a temporary basis until a new Maltese Commissioner is appointed.

The move follows the resignation of former Commissioner John Dalli on 16 October 2012.

V-P Šefčovič has spoken to the director-general of the health and consumer protection directorate-general (DG SANCO) and to the team of former Commissioner Dalli, reassuring them of his support and encouraging them to continue with business as usual through the interim period.

In a video message to staff, he praised the work of DG SANCO, calling it "a tangible example of how Europe can bring real benefit to the lives of all 500m EU citizens". He also praised their high levels of professionalism and dedication, and stressed that their work remained unaffected by the change of Commissioner.

DG SANCO works on a wide range of issues of vital importance to the citizens of Europe, from food labelling and safety to cross-border healthcare and consumer credit.