Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Ward for this question, all his work as an Oireachtas Chairperson in this area and the genuine passion and interest I know he has in it.

As colleagues will know, Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the eighth time from next July until December 2026. Preparations are well under way, led by my Department in close co-ordination with the Department of the Taoiseach and with the active participation of all Departments across the Government. This is and must be truly a whole-of-government effort. I briefed the Government earlier today on progress in our preparations, including the planning of our policy approach, and the practical and operational preparations that are under way to ensure the delivery of a successful Presidency next year. Work is ongoing to develop the priorities and the policy programme for Ireland's Presidency. This programme will be prepared against the backdrop of the EU's strategic agenda 2024-29 and the legislative work programme of the European Commission. It will also be shaped by our own priorities in relation to the European Union.

The Government is consulting with other EU member states and stepping up our engagement with the EU institutions as this process of programme development continues. Our policy programme will be finalised and published shortly before the start of our Presidency term.

The Government recognises the importance of ensuring that stakeholder groups in Ireland have their voices heard. My Department is preparing a series of consultation meetings with stakeholders from across civil society, business and other groups. A call for written submissions will also be launched in the coming weeks. This will ensure that all interested parties have the opportunity to have their say on the development of our Presidency priorities.

Work is also under way to prepare the programme of meetings to be hosted in Ireland during the Presidency. These will include a summit of the European Political Community, an informal meeting of the European Council and 22 informal ministerial meetings. Overall, we can expect to host more than 250 Presidency events here.

The Government has made a firm commitment to resource and deliver a successful Presidency. I am confident that in 2026 Ireland will be able to make a significant and positive contribution in leading the EU's agenda and shaping the future of our Union.

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