Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 January 2026
846. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance 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. [75267/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraHolding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July this year represents an important opportunity for Ireland to shape and lead on European policy priorities, including the Union’s economic and financial agenda.
The high-level thematic priorities of Ireland’s Presidency are under development at present, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade coordinating across Government on the development of the overarching policy programme. This will be prepared in line with the EU Strategic Agenda for 2024-29, considering the current legislative work programme of the European Commission and informed by stakeholder engagement and public outreach activities led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The specific priorities of Ireland’s EU Presidency will depend on the evolution of the Council’s legislative agenda over the course of the Cyprus Presidency. We will need to take stock of the progress made before we publish our own thematic priorities in June.
The Deputy will be aware of the broader economic context against which Ireland will assume the EU Presidency next summer. As such, we expect a particular emphasis on strengthening the EU’s competitiveness. Driving progress on the EU simplification agenda and the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework will also be important focuses.
In the Economic and Financial Affairs (ECOFIN) track, we expect a significant amount of work on the Savings and Investments Union, which includes a number of legislative proposals aimed at building deeper and more integrated capital markets. Other files include the digital euro, and the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation. We will also advance work in the area of taxation and customs.
The Department of Finance will drive these initiatives – with support from the Central Bank of Ireland and the Revenue Commissioners – with the goal of delivering tangible benefits for citizens and businesses. Other bodies under the aegis stand ready to support the Department should any relevant matters arise during Ireland’s Presidency.
Finally, on the wider European security context and global backdrop, the EU’s continued financial support to Ukraine and international economic relations will be important priorities.
I expect to provide more detail to the Deputy once we get closer to taking the Presidency chair on 1 July next.
