New environment head for EU Commission

A new top administrator for the European Commission's environment department was named yesterday. Catherine Day, who has already worked for the EU executive in various capacities for over 20 years, will replace DG environment's outgoing director general Jim Currie.

Irish by nationality, the 48-year-old Ms Day was promoted to director general level in 1999 when she became head of DG enlargement. Most of her experience with the Commission has focused on external relations, and particularly with central and eastern European countries now preparing to join the EU. Earlier postings involved industry matters and state aids.