ld a Commission based on the general interests of Europe, as distinct from the interests of each Member State. We parliamentarians have no freedom to choose the Commission and each of its members on our own. For that reason, Mr Barroso, we cannot back your proposal. 
McDonald (GUE/NGL ).
The EU is going through a period of immense change and in the months ahead countries will debate and vote on key issues, most notably the EU Constitution. There was a real opportunity following enlargement to come forward with a Commission which was open and progressive and which could have a positive impact on those inside and outside the European Union's borders. Unfortunately, this has not happened.
Last month, we in Sinn Fein expressed our opposition to the incoming European Commission because we were deeply concerned at the political and policy complexion of that Commission. For us this was never about individuals or the personal convictions held by some within the European Commission. Our analysis is rooted in the manifesto that we presented to the Irish electorate in this year's European elections. In that manifesto we set out a clear and radical vision of Europe based on principles of equality, justice and human rights. We also made clear our opposition to the continued erosion of public services and social welfare provision Europe-wide and the role that the EU is playing in this regard.
During the September hearings, many of the proposed Commissioners outlined support for social and economic policies that will actively undermine equality, justice and social solidarity. There are also, as previous speakers have noted, a number of proposed Commissioners who have serious questions to answer with respect to their record when acting as ministers in their home states.
Whatever the rhetoric, the Commission that you present today, Mr Barroso, represents only minimal and cosmetic changes to your team. It is on this basis, and not through any desire for refusenik glamour, that Sinn Fein MEPs cannot support the European Commission 