Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
368. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the priorities of his Department and each agency for which they are responsible for, in respect of Ireland’s presidency of the European Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [75262/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026. As chair of the Council of the EU, Ireland will set the agenda and drive policy and legislative work across all ministerial formations.
I am determined to lead our fellow Member States on issues of importance across the Energy and Environment Councils, as well as the many other areas for which my Department has responsibility. We will also strive to influence and shape future international policies on critical climate, energy, and environmental issues. In an ever-changing global landscape, our leadership will be crucial in driving progressive and effective solutions.
At this stage of our preparations, we are developing high-level thematic priorities which will guide policy development and our hierarchy of priorities. Consultations are taking place with stakeholders to gather observations, suggestions, and reflections on how Ireland can best fulfil its Presidency role; ensure the Presidency policy programme is informed by diverse perspectives from across Irish society; and identify EU-wide issues, themes, and policy areas that should be given particular attention during Ireland’s Presidency.
The Commission work programme 2026 was published in October 2025 and my Department has identified a number of files that it will likely lead on during the Irish presidency. We will be working closely with Cyprus during their Presidency to develop continuity from one Presidency to the next.
