WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), the dean of the New England and Massachusetts House congressional delegations, issued the following statement after Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick announced the interim appointment of Paul G. Kirk Jr. to the U.S. Senate.

“I congratulate my friend Paul Kirk on his appointment to the Senate and commend Gov. Patrick for his outstanding choice,” said Markey. “From climate change to the Employee Free Choice Act to health care--the cause of Sen. Kennedy’s life—the issues pending in the Senate are simply too important to have anything less than full representation for the Commonwealth.”

“I have known Paul for many years and he is a dedicated public servant. He will serve the people of Massachusetts with honor and distinction and will continue the work of his trusted friend, Ted Kennedy. Kirk’s appointment will ensure that the excellent work Sen. Kennedy’s staff has done for the citizens of Massachusetts will continue.”