The government has opened a consultation to ask people what our priorities should be when Ireland takes over the rotating presidency of the European Council next year.
“The presidency will be a really important and exciting opportunity for Ireland to lead and shape our European agenda”, said Tánaiste, Simon Harris TD in a video message.
Ireland will hold the European Council presidency from July to December 2026.
During that time, Ireland will decide which pieces of legislation should be priorities. Irish ministers will also chair all the key meetings in Brussels and Luxembourg.
Ministers from across the EU will also be invited to Ireland for agenda-setting meetings.
“The Government is seeking views from domestic stakeholders and the Irish public on the development of Ireland’s Presidency priorities and policy programme”, the Department of Foreign Affairs says.
“The Government is seeking to gather observations, suggestions, and reflections on how Ireland can best fulfil its Presidency role; ensure the Presidency policy programme is informed by diverse perspectives from across Irish society; and identify EU-wide issues, themes, and policy areas that should be given particular attention during Ireland’s Presidency.”
In the consultation – which can be found here – respondents are asked:
“It is proposed that Ireland’s overall policy approach for the 2026 Presidency will be expressed at a high level in the form of a single overarching phrase or slogan setting out a people-centred and future-oriented vision for the EU, accompanied by three priority themes.
Respondents are asked to consider the following guiding questions and to limit their responses to each question to a maximum of 500 words. Please note that you do not have to respond to all questions.”
Ireland’s EU presidency will bring “increased visibility for Ireland on the European stage”, said Thomas Byrne TD, Minister of State for European Affairs.
“At a time when Europe faces many, many challenges, it will be a chance to play our part to ensure the work of the EU has a positive impact on people and communities across all 27 EU member states”, said Simon Harris.
The consultation closes on 12 December.