Dublin, Tuesday 9 June – Mr Maurice Pratt is the new Chairperson of European Movement Ireland, the voluntary body dedicated to explaining the work of the European Union in straightforward, jargon-free terms. The appointment of Mr Pratt is one of several initiatives designed to highlight the profile and work of the organisation over the next few months. 
Commenting on his appointment, Maurice Pratt (54) said “Now more than ever it is vital that Ireland redefines what role it hopes to play in Europe and what relationship we would like to have with our European partners. European Movement Ireland has a young, innovative team that is bringing a more balanced discussion on Europe to the Irish people so they can make up their minds on the facts. I am looking forward to working with Andrea and her team and leading this organisation through the next phase of its development.”

Executive director Andrea Pappin said, “On behalf of the board and staff at European Movement Ireland, we are delighted to welcome Maurice Pratt. With our dynamic new team has come a new focus and an ambitious range of activities and events for 2009  to get people discussing Europe. Maurice’s expertise, entrepreneurship and leadership will be invaluable in moving this organisation forward and bringing our plans into fruition.  We are all looking forward to working closely with him.”  

Maurice Pratt is the non-Executive Chairman and Board Director, Bank of Scotland Ireland. Former CEO of C&C Group and Managing Director of Tesco Ireland, he holds a number of directorships including IBEC and Business in the Community Ireland.  Maurice is also a fellow of the Marketing Institute of Ireland.  He takes over the position from Jillian van Turnhout, CEO of the Children’s Rights Alliance and a member of the European Economic and Social Committee, who had been acting as interim Chairperson.