23rd September 2026
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, will attend the Competitiveness Council (COMPET) in Brussels on 24 September 2026, where Ministers will discuss measures to strengthen Europe's competitiveness, industrial capacity and technological resilience.
The Council will hold a policy debate on the proposed Regulation on a European Chips Act 2.0, which aims to strengthen the European semiconductor ecosystem, increase the competitiveness and resilience of the EU semiconductor value chain, and enhance crisis preparedness and security of supply.
Ministers will also exchange views on the ongoing review of the EU Merger Guidelines, which seeks to ensure the EU's competition framework remains fit for purpose in light of developments such as digitalisation, artificial intelligence, data-driven business models and evolving economic conditions. Under Any Other Business, the Irish Presidency will provide updates on key legislative proposals, including the Industrial Accelerator Act, the 28th Regime (EU Inc.), and the European Competitiveness Fund. These initiatives are intended to support industrial decarbonisation, simplify conditions for startups and innovative companies operating across the Single Market, and strengthen Europe's competitiveness and economic security.
Ahead of the meeting, Minister Burke said:
"This Competitiveness Council comes at an important time for Europe as we work together to strengthen our industrial base, support innovation and enhance the resilience of our economy. Ireland strongly supports efforts to boost European competitiveness while deepening the Single Market and creating opportunities for businesses to grow and succeed.
"Discussions on the European Chips Act 2.0, the review of merger guidelines and other strategic initiatives will help shape the future of Europe's economy. As President of the Council of the European Union, Ireland is committed to working constructively with Member States, the European Commission and the European Parliament to advance these important files and deliver practical outcomes for citizens and businesses across Europe."
The Council meeting will also be followed by a ministerial lunch discussion on Embedding economic security in EU competitiveness policy.
Notes to Editors
The Competitiveness Council brings together ministers responsible for internal market, industry, research and space policy from across the European Union. The Council meeting on 24 September 2026 will take place in Brussels.
Agenda items
- Regulation on a European Chips Act 2.0 (policy debate)
- Review of the Merger Guidelines (exchange of views)
- Information from the Irish Presidency on:
- Industrial Accelerator Act
- 28th Regime (EU Inc.)
- European Competitiveness Fund
ENDS
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