26th May 2026
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke has welcomed Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Stéphane Séjourné to discuss preparations for Ireland’s forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Ireland will hold the rotating Presidency from July to December 2026, helping to drive Council business, facilitate discussions among Member States and accelerate progress on legislative and policy files.
Issues discussed included competitiveness, the single market, the green and digital transitions and economic resilience.
Minister Burke and Executive Vice-President Séjourné discussed how Ireland aims to deliver a focused Presidency, build consensus among Member States and act as an impartial broker in the Council.
Minister Peter Burke said:
“Ireland is committed to delivering a practical, well-prepared Presidency focused on outcomes. Our role will be to drive progress across the Council agenda and help facilitate discussion on issues affecting businesses and citizens across the European Union.”
“Government is looking forward to working with the European Commission, the European Parliament and Member States during the Presidency to support the Council’s work and progress key files.”
Executive Vice-President Séjourné noted Ireland’s preparations and the importance of cooperation between the Commission and the Council during the Presidency.
Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné said:
“Ireland’s Presidency comes at an important time for the European Union’s economic and industrial agenda. We need Irish leadership in building consensus and effectiveness in the talks so we can deliver promptly to our businesses, workers and citizens.”
The meeting concluded with agreement to remain in contact in the coming weeks and during Ireland’s Presidency on relevant Council business.
ENDS
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