Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
2337. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to her Department and to each agency for which they are responsible arising from Ireland’s presidency of the European Council; the line items or events for which a cost is expected to arise and the estimated cost for each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [75252/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026 will be an important opportunity for Ireland to shape Europe’s policy direction, lead important aspects of the EU’s work, and showcase Ireland’s engagement, expertise and values at the heart of the European Union.
The Government committed in the Programme for Government to resourcing and delivering a successful EU Presidency. Major planning has taken place to date to ensure that costs are managed across all expenditure headings and prudent financial planning will continue throughout to ensure value for money.
The funding being allocated for the Presidency is supporting substantial additional temporary staffing needs in Brussels and in Ireland to deliver on the Council’s legislative and policy agenda. It is also supporting delivery of the Presidency’s extensive meeting programme in Ireland and opportunities to showcase the best of Ireland to our partners from all across Europe.
The breakdown of EU Presidency-specific allocations to Departments and Agencies was published in Appendix 9 of the Revised Estimates for 2026, available at: assets.gov.ie/static/documents/653f8c26/Revised_Estimates_for_Public_Services_2026.pdf.
The 2026 Budget Estimates and agencies' own estimates include allocations for EU Presidency of:
• €2.062m for D/Health;
• €800,000 for HPRA;
• €228,000 for FSAI; and
• €50,000-€100,000 for HRB.
These allocations cover the costs of additional staff in Dublin and in Brussels, as well as the hosting of Health-related high-level events to support the delivery of Ireland's Presidency. A detailed breakdown is currently not available as the programme for the Presidency is still being developped.
The Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade has the responsibility for central co-ordination of operational planning for the EU Presidency across Government.
A co-ordinated approach, supported by the Office of Government Procurement, is being taken to procurement of key services such as accreditation, transport, interpretation, catering, and accommodation, to support consistency of standards and cost-control.
