Cathy Bennett
Question:227. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will report on his engagement regarding the EU Multiannual Financial Framework post-2027. [10075/26]
View answerTuesday, 10 February 2026
Questions (227)
Written answers
By way of update to my answer in writing on December 18, to the Deputy’s previous question on this matter, EU leaders adopted Council conclusions covering a range of priority issues, including the next MFF, at the December 2025 European Council. The Council noted the draft Negotiating Box developed by the Danish Presidency and looked ahead to work progressing under the Cyprus presidency. The European Council indicated the importance of an agreement on the MFF package before the end of 2026, setting out a clear timeline for negotiations.
On 3 February, I welcomed Commissioner Piotr Serafin, the European Commissioner for Budget and Commissioner Christophe Hansen, the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food to Dublin. During our constructive meeting, which was also attended by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and the Minister for European Affairs, I outlined Ireland’s priorities and concerns in relation to the MFF proposal as it is currently framed.
These include but are not limited to: a strong and ringfenced Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and Common Fisheries Policy, the continuation of the PEACEPLUS programme in Northern Ireland and the bordering counties of Ireland, funding for competitiveness and research based on the principle of excellence, sustained support for Ukraine and continued development and humanitarian assistance.
I also emphasised the importance of simplification and the reduction of administrative burden for the beneficiaries of EU funds.
In relation to the financing of the budget, I was clear that the own resources revenue system must be fair, equitable, simple and transparent, based primarily on Gross National Income (GNI).
The meeting provided a welcome opportunity to engage with the European Commission directly, in order to ensure that Ireland’s views are clearly understood as the consideration of the proposal continues.
I will continue to engage actively with the European Commission and with Ministerial counterparts across the EU in the coming months, as will my colleagues in Government.