The collapse of the government coalition in Bucharest

The governing coalition between the National Liberal Party (PNL) and the Democratic Party (PD) in Romania has collapsed. Observers speculate that Prime Minister Calin Tariceanu will now try to govern with a minority cabinet, of which justice minister Monica Macovei, who is highly respected in EU circles, would not be a member. Tom Gallagher points out that Brussels will not be happy about this. "Prime Minister Calin Tariceanu must convince the West that the word 'continuity' has priority as far as the reform of the country's judicial system is concerned... EU Justice Commissioner Franco Frattini will take note of how Calin Tariceanu is ignoring the EU's recommendations and regulations. Tariceanu's arrogance first became obvious when he tried to push through Varujan Vosganian's appointment as EU commissioner without consulting Brussels. Now, Tariceanu will probably tell Frattini that the judicial reforms will continue, but at a pace set by Romania."

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