As some of you know , Ireland and the United Kingdom were my home in exile for several decades. Every time I return here I am struck by two things. Rain, of course. But more important, by memories.
Today is both.
Our courtship began years ago, in Gland, we spent months of anguish in planning and reassurances and declarations of faith. With this report, signed barely one hour ago, our marriage became official in the eyes of the world. On behalf of the Commissioners, and the Secretariat, it is now time to take a well earned, ten day, worldwide honeymoon. Yet today is also a wake. For as I conclude my remarks, in a few moments, the Commission as we know it shall cease to exist.