Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 to 24, inclusive, together.

The programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland's Future, recognises the importance of Cabinet committees to the policy development and oversight work of Government.

The Cabinet committee on EU and international affairs was established by the Government on 15 February 2025. Its role is to oversee implementation of programme for Government commitments in relation to the European Union, including preparation of Ireland's Presidency in the second half of 2026, and international issues.

The Cabinet committee last met on Monday, 16 June when it considered items on the agenda of the meeting of the European Council that took place on 26 June, the situation in the Middle East and the EU's future budget for the period beyond 2027.

As I reported to the House in my statement on 9 July, at its June meeting, the European Council discussed developments in Ukraine; the Middle East, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza; European defence and security; global economic developments; competitiveness; migration; preparedness; and the EU's internal security.

Leaders also exchanged views on EU-US trade relations. The next meeting of the Cabinet committee is scheduled for 16 October when it will discuss items on the agenda of the European Council meeting that will take place on 23 and 24 October. It will also take stock of ongoing preparations for Ireland's Presidency of the EU Council in the second half of 2026.

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