Ireland Prepares for Eighth EU Presidency
Dublin, Ireland – On January 22, 2026, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, delivered a pivotal keynote address at Europe House, outlining Ireland's comprehensive preparations for its upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Ireland is set to assume the rotating presidency for the eighth time, from July 1 to December 31, 2026, taking over from Cyprus.
The address, which marked Minister McEntee's first significant policy speech since her appointment as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Minister for Defence in November 2025, focused on the strategic direction Ireland intends to take during its six-month tenure.
Core Pillars: Values, Security, and Competitiveness
Minister McEntee highlighted three overarching pillars that will guide Ireland's presidency: values, security, and competitiveness. These themes are in alignment with the Strategic Agenda for the EU, which was agreed upon by European leaders in late 2024.
- Values: Emphasizing the foundational importance of shared European values, particularly in times of instability.
- Security: Stressing that 'Without security, there can be no prosperity,' and affirming Ireland's commitment to strengthening its own security while maintaining its policy of neutrality.
- Competitiveness: Highlighting the role of competitiveness in sustaining societies, delivering quality jobs, and improving living standards, with the single market at its core.
The Minister underscored the interconnectedness of these pillars, stating, 'Without security, there can be no prosperity. Without competitiveness, we cannot sustain our societies. And without values, none of it matters.'
Fostering a National Conversation on Europe
During her address, hosted by the European Parliament Liaison Office and the European Commission Representation in Ireland, Minister McEntee acknowledged Ireland's strong support for the EU but also voiced concerns regarding a 'rising level of Euroscepticism' within the country. She called for a national conversation to engage citizens with the meaning and benefits of EU membership, aiming to counter populist narratives that attribute national problems to 'Brussels.'
In preparation for the presidency, an initiative was announced on January 16, 2026, to pair each Irish county with a specific EU Member State. This program will involve ambassadors visiting various communities across Ireland to promote direct engagement and strengthen cultural, business, and community links with other European partners.
Looking Ahead to a Challenging Global Environment
Minister McEntee noted that Ireland's presidency will occur during 'a new moment in history,' characterized by rapid global changes and challenged assumptions. She emphasized the critical nature of the choices made by countries and the Union in this evolving landscape. The upcoming presidency will provide Ireland with a significant opportunity to lead and shape the EU's agenda, steering legislative and policy matters amidst a complex geopolitical background.
5 Comments
Coccinella
McEntee lacks the experience for such a critical role.
Donatello
The focus on competitiveness and the single market is crucial for economic growth, yet the article doesn't detail how Ireland plans to tackle the growing regulatory burden on smaller enterprises. We need to ensure the benefits are felt broadly, not just by large corporations.
Raphael
Just political posturing; nothing tangible will come of it.
Leonardo
Excellent priorities: values, security, and competitiveness.
ZmeeLove
It's good to see Ireland taking a leadership role and emphasizing EU values, but the push for increased security while maintaining neutrality feels like a difficult circle to square in today's geopolitical climate. Clarity on how these will truly coexist is needed.