The Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, represented by Minister Thomas Byrne, reported to the European Parliament plenary in Strasbourg on 8 July 2026 on three debates covering climate resilience, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and spyware surveillance of an MEP. The report, delivered during the plenary session of 6-9 July 2026, outlined the Council's positions on these pressing issues.
On heatwaves and wildfires, the Presidency affirmed human-induced climate change as a major cause and highlighted the forthcoming EU Framework for Climate Resilience. It recalled the Council recommendation of 29 June 2026 on integrated wildfire risk management, which calls for enhanced prevention, preparedness, and response coordination among member states. The framework, expected to be proposed by the European Commission later this year, aims to strengthen adaptation measures across sectors, including infrastructure, health, and agriculture. The Presidency's remarks underscore the EU's commitment to climate action, building on the European Green Deal and the EU's 2030 climate targets.
Regarding Gaza, the Presidency expressed grave concerns over the humanitarian crisis and called on Israel to allow immediate, unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance. It stressed the EU's role in supporting reconstruction and the Palestinian Authority, aligning with the Council conclusions of 18 June 2026 that called for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. The EU has pledged €500 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza in 2026, with disbursement conditional on access guarantees.
On the issue of spyware surveillance of an MEP, the Presidency called for full attention to cyberattacks undermining data privacy and urged more information sharing and capacity building among member states. It stated that the next semester will focus on protecting citizens online, notably children, and the safety of political candidates and elected representatives. This follows the European Parliament's resolution of 15 June 2026 condemning the use of spyware against MEPs and calling for a ban on the sale and use of such technology within the EU. The Council is expected to discuss a proposed regulation on cybersecurity requirements for digital products in the coming months.
The debates highlight the Council's priorities under the Irish Presidency, which runs until December 2026. The European Parliament will continue to scrutinize these issues through committee work and upcoming plenary debates.