Ireland Prepares for EU Presidency, Focus on Security and Economic Priorities
Ireland is finalizing preparations for its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, set to begin on July 1, 2026. Key priorities include strengthening competitiveness and enhancing security across the EU, as outlined by Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee in a recent briefing to the Cabinet.1
Potential UK and Northern Ireland Involvement
Minister McEntee has proposed a plan to consider inviting ministers from Northern Ireland and the UK government to participate in some of the informal council meetings hosted in Ireland during the six-month presidency.2 These invitations would be extended alongside those to EU officials, taking into account the unique circumstances on the island of Ireland. The UK has previously attended EU meetings in areas such as energy, culture, industry, and research following Brexit.2
Key Government Initiatives
Alongside the EU presidency preparations, the Irish Cabinet is addressing several domestic issues. Minister for Housing James Browne presented a new “voids” program aimed at reducing vacancy rates in local authority social housing and accelerating the reoccupation of these properties. Funding will be linked to local authorities’ performance in managing their housing stock.
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris briefed the Cabinet on plans to dissolve the National Asset Management Agency (Nama), established during the financial crisis to manage non-performing property loans. The Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC) will also be liquidated, with remaining assets transferred to the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA).2 Harris also outlined plans for two financial literacy ambassadors and a new savings and investment account, alongside updates on insurance reform efforts.
Child Welfare and Disability Services
Minister for Children Norma Foley detailed plans to place the National Review Panel, which investigates the deaths of children known to Tusla (the Child and Family Agency), on a statutory footing. She also announced plans to hire a disability services manager in each health region, as well as a national disability manager.
Infrastructure and Transport Improvements
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien presented two plans: the “moving together” strategy to improve collaboration on urban congestion and transport-related air pollution, and the Sustainable Mobility Policy Action Plan to monitor progress on major public transport projects like BusConnects, MetroLink, and the Cork Commuter Rail.
Health and Security Updates
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill provided an update on proposed inquiries into matters at Children’s Health Ireland and the activities of convicted child abuser Michael Shine. She also, along with Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, sought approval for legislation on vaping, including a ban on nicotine pouches for those under 18 and restrictions on advertising and product presentation.2
Education and Research
Minister for Higher and Further Education James Lawless updated the Cabinet on student grant application opening dates, with renewals starting on March 5, 2026, and new applications opening in early April. He also discussed the establishment of a new Research and Innovation Policy Advisory Forum.
Accelerating Capital Projects
Minister for Infrastructure Jack Chambers presented new legislation to legally mandate agencies and State bodies to expedite the delivery of capital projects. Projects deemed to be in the national and public interest could be quick-tracked through the approval and delivery process via a Dáil vote.
Anti-Drone Technology
Minister for Defence Helen McEntee has affirmed that anti-drone technology will be in place before the start of Ireland’s EU presidency.4