- 2026-06-16 “27:27 – 16:31:24): Thank you, very much, Maralena. On behalf of the incoming trio of Ireland, Lithuania, and Greece, I have the honor to present the 18 month program of the council for the period of the 07/01/2026 to the 12/31/2027 and to invite you as the council, to endorse the program.
The program document is the product of many months of work and deliberation, and I want to, sincerely thank Sigitas and Alexandra and to their teams for the excellent cooperation around that process. I note in particular that this might be Alexandra's last council before, she changes roles, and I wanna pay tribute to her, and the Greek the incoming Greek presidency next year for all the work that's been done by their ministry.
Alexandra tells me she'll still be heavily involved in the ministry. We're also grateful to the council secretariat for their support and assistance as we develop the program.
Our aim in the document is to provide a high level orientation for the work of the council through the period of our 3 upcoming presidencies to ensure the coherence of our approach over the next 18 months.
In formulating the program, we have drawn to a significant extent on the strategic agenda for 24 to 29, while acknowledging too that we live in a volatile world and the context for the work of the union is constantly evolving.
The program builds on the 3 pillars of the strategic agenda. Working on the 1st of these pillars, is a free and democratic Europe, the trio will work to safeguard and uphold our shared European values, the foundation on which our union is built. We will work to strengthen our democratic resilience and advance social cohesion.
On the strong and secure Europe pillar, we will seek to drive ambitious progress on the enlargement of our union and work to strengthen the European Union's role as a global actor, supporting the international order based on international law.
We will actively support the advancement of key European Union security and defense initiatives. We will work to ensure a fully and effective functioning common asylum and migration system, and we will work to enhance energy security and resilience.
In the face of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, we will reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in all dimensions, including political, economic, military, energy, financial, and humanitarian support.
In advancing work on a prosperous and competitive union, we will take forward the 1 Europe, 1 market agenda, support connectivity in the digital, energy, and transportation sectors, and work to make the success of the green and digital transitions.
We will promote research and innovation to deliver both scientific and societal benefits, and we will reinforce the social and a quality focused dimensions of EU policies.
We will all also finalize work on a multi annual financial framework that meets the needs of the union for the years ahead.
We have much work to do collectively over the next 18 months, building on the excellent work of the outgoing trio of Poland, Denmark, and Cyprus whose substantial achievements I would like to recognize.
We look forward to the cooperation of colleagues in delivering on a positive and ambitious agenda for the work of the council in the period to the end of 20 27.
I will set out in more detail our Irish presidency priorities at the next meeting in Brussels, which is taking place, by the way, on the 14th 14th of July. I look forward to seeing you all there.
I'm looking straight across at the the empty seat there to the right of the commissioner. And when I 1st became European affairs minister, that was my seat. And I never thought I'd actually circulate around to this seat to be about to take the presidency. But here we are, and I've learned a lot in the meantime.
But, Maralena, I've learned a lot from you as well in terms of the work that you have done over the last 6 months or so. It's been incredible. And as I said in Irish, I hope there's work left for us to do after the July 1. So thanks very much.”
EU-Ukraine relations · EU political integration
- 2026-06-16 “I welcome all the valuable contributions that colleagues have made here today, and indeed, the pragmatic approach that Member States have shown throughout the negotiations, both here at the GAC, the General Affairs Council and indeed at official level. There is significant progress made on the PNR, the European Competitiveness Fund and the Global Europe instrument under the stewardship of both Denmark and Cyprus. Since the publication of the MFF proposal last summer. Ireland can support the presidency ambition to reach an agreement on all three regulations today, which will provide a strong basis to take forward the work of the MFF. And again, thank you for your leadership and that of Cyprus.”
Size of EU budget
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you Marilena, and I want to thank you and all your team for all the work you've done in advancing the negotiations on the Multiannual Financial framework. These negotiations are tricky, they're difficult, and there are many views around the table. But somebody has to do the job of presidency. And we all know that a timely agreement on the MFF is essential. It's not only as a symbol of our commitment to our priorities and ambitions, but it's also speaks to our ability to act collectively and sends a message out to the wider world about Europe, about Europe Inc.. There are many views around this table. We've all heard them. A compromise is is always reachable. It always has been in the past. And I think now as the work moves on after today, we all have to consider where we are able to make those compromises. This is absolutely essential for us all to do if we are to illustrate our commitment and ambition to our people in delivering an ambitious and a timely budget. Thank you very much.”
Size of EU budget
- 2026-06-16 “(17:15:55 – 17:24:02): Thank you very much, and good afternoon, everyone. It's a great pleasure, to be here, with you, Maralena. And can I begin by congratulating you and all of your colleagues in the Cyprus presidency on your achievements over the last six months? Knowing you and your personality and that of your team, you will squeeze the last drop of progress that is available, until midnight on this night, two weeks' time. So you're not finished yet, but I do want to acknowledge, the enormous commitment that has been demonstrated by you personally and by the whole team.
It requires a remarkable amount of hard work, to lead a presidency, and you have done so at a critical juncture for the European Union. And I think without hesitation, I can say it has been done, to a very high standard. So thank you for all of your work, and thank you personally for your leadership and for managing to maintain a warm personality and smile despite the pressures and the hard work that you had to do and the complexity of the tasks, that had to be undertaken over the last six months.
But a lot of progress has been made on many priorities that we share, and I'm delighted to acknowledge that at this afternoon. I was pleased to be present for many of the agenda items today at the General Affairs Council, and I will provide a brief update from the Commission's perspective on the different issues.
Starting with my own portfolio, the rule of law is one of the founding values of the European Union and is a prerequisite for strong and resilient democracies that respect and protect fundamental rights. It is what ensures that rights and freedoms are protected, that power is exercised within limits, and that citizens can have trust in their institutions.
And this is why the European Commission has a rule of law toolbox to prevent problems from emerging in the first place or from deepening when they do and to respond decisively to serious and persistent challenges. And the Article 7 procedure is one such tool, and today, I updated ministers on this procedure in respect of Hungary. I welcomed Hungary's clear commitment to restoring the rule of law and its determination to deliver on the promises made, to the Hungarian people. This is a message I passed to the new government when I visited Budapest, two weeks ago.
But as President von der Leyen has rightly stated, we will not take any shortcuts in this process. We will work hand in hand to address all of the issues for the good of Hungary, its people, and of the European Union. Since Hungary's new government took office last month, important progress has already been made. The so-called state of danger that allowed the government to override acts of parliament expired on May 13. Pressure on independent media and civil society organizations has been alleviated.
On May 29, a political agreement was reached under reforms needed to strengthen the anticorruption framework. These reforms will enter into force by August 31 this year. And just yesterday, the Hungarian National Assembly adopted an amendment to the fundamental law. This paves the way for the abolition of the Sovereignty Protection Office, the object of a long standing infringement procedure, before the Court of Justice.
Today, I also welcomed Hungary's notification that it intends to join the European Public Prosecutor's Office. This will allow the EPO to investigate and prosecute offenses against the Union's financial interests, from June 2021. The Commission will continue to monitor progress in the weeks and months ahead, and Hungary can count on our support as it works to restore the rule of law, for the good of the people of Hungary.
I'd like to turn to our discussions on the EU's next long term budget, the multi-annual financial framework. Under the Cyprus presidency, three partial general approaches have been reached, forming the main building blocks of the next MFF on the Global Europe Fund, the Europe Competitiveness Fund, and the National and Regional Partnership Plans Regulation. As President von der Leyen underlined last Sunday, this demonstrates the member states' support for a simpler and more modern EU budget that invests in Europe's competitiveness, security, and cohesion as well as the EU's global role.
On the so-called negotiating box, we know that negotiations of this scale will lead to compromises that might not satisfy all parties, but the Cyprus presidency has heard a wide range of views and has identified some points of convergence. The Commission will maintain the ambition of its proposal, especially on competitiveness, security and flexibility. Reaching an agreement by the end of this year, in our view, remains essential. And the Commission stands ready to deliver this through close cooperation with the member states and the European Parliament.
As Marilena has said today, we also discussed simplification and the status of the omnibus packages, which are central to this Commission's competitiveness drive. The 10 omnibus proposals that have already been tabled are expected to deliver at least €15,000,000,000 in annual administrative savings, but we must now make progress in line with the ambition of the original proposals and the speed agreed in the One Europe, One Market roadmap.
The Commission also welcomes the Council's approval of the presidency horizontal note on the European Semester country specific recommendations. This follows the presentation of the recommendations as part of the Commission's European Semester spring package earlier this month. The strong emphasis the note places on competitiveness is especially welcome as this is a priority of the current semester cycle.
Finally, today also saw an exchange of views on the preparations for the European Council that will take place on Thursday and Friday of this week. Discussions covered a wide range of topics, in particular, the EU support for Ukraine, including through the 21st sanctions package and Ukraine support loan, the opening of accession negotiations on cluster 1 for Ukraine and Moldova, aid for Palestine and Lebanon, European defense and security, and last week's entry into force of the pact on migration and asylum.
And as you know, at the beginning of the proceedings today, we had a very good discussion on European Democracy Shield, the need to ensure the resilience of our shared democracy, not just in the European Union, but also in our neighborhood. And it was a great honor to be present and contribute to that discussion alongside representatives from candidate countries and potential candidate countries as we work together, under the auspices of the overall democracy shield and as we give effect now to the mandate of the European Center for Democratic Resilience and as we move to onboard in line with the wishes of the member states, the candidate and potential candidate countries.
Finally, I would like to wrap up by welcoming the program of the incoming presidency trio, Ireland, Lithuania, and Greece. You can count on the Commission's full support in your efforts to conclude the negotiations of the next MFF as swiftly as possible and to advance the implementation of the One Europe, One Market roadmap among a host of other priorities. We look forward to working with the incoming trio. But as I said, there's two weeks to go and no doubt a lot of work yet to do. But once again, my congratulations to Marilena and the whole team in the Cyprus presidency, for the excellent job of work, that they have done. Thank you very much.”
Rule of law in Hungary
- 2026-06-16 “24:42 – 16:26:07): I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate the presidency to congratulate you, Marlene, the presidency of Cyprus for the excellent progress that you've made on the simplification agenda during your presidency and the very best for the last, part of your presidency. And I'm sure we'll have quite some work to do as well.
The direction from EU leaders is clear. We need to see continued momentum and ambition. That is why driving an ambitious and meaningful simplification agenda will be 1 of the top priorities for Ireland's EU presidency.
Our aim is to agree all outstanding omnibus packages by the end of the year, in line with the commitments set out in the 1 Europe, 1 market road map and to make early progress on new packages.
We are aware of the high level of ambition, and we will spare no effort to deliver progress on this critically important agenda during our presidency. We count on all member states to help us advance with the urgency required and to support our engagement with the European Parliament. Thank you.”
Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
- “Thank you, Pascal. And looking forward to working very closely with you in your presidency and you can be absolutely assured of our cooperation. A significant portion of the additional spending proposed in the mid-term revision relates to the support to Ukraine. I welcome that the Commission is viewing these in a multiannual terms aligned with the current EU budget, which runs to 2027. Ireland fully supports Ukraine and will continue to contribute to meeting its financial needs. [00:33:30] The Commission's proposal also includes measures aimed at responding to inflation and higher interest rates on the EU's own borrowings. We must scrutinise these very closely from a value for money perspective. Our starting point in all possible flexibilities in the existing EU budget should be used to full before any funding is sought. Our strong preference is also to keep the MFF mid-term revision draft budget 2024 and the new own resources [00:34:00] proposals completely separate. Finally, we note a lot of detail analysis will be required, such as the predictability of the annual Member State contribution contributions. Thank you.”
Size of EU budget
- “President and I speak on behalf of myself and my Danish colleague and I want to thank the presidency and indeed the commission for their tremendous hard work on this really sensitive and important file. It is a matter of great disappointment that we've not been able to reach agreement and council on a robust position that would enable us to negotiate with the parliament from a position of strength in order to adopt a regulation that will make a real difference to victims of child sexual abuse. And I'd like to thank the commissioner today for the way that she has illustrated in a very human way what it is we're actually talking about and trying to address. We still hope that we can reach such an agreement, but if not, it is vital that we have a temporary regulation and therefore we welcome that the commission has come forward with this temporary proposal. But we would encourage the presidency, the commission, and all the colleagues to continue to work on this to ensure, as I say, that we land on a robust position to protect victims of child sexual abuse. Thank you.”
Privacy & detection of online child abuse
- “Thank you, chair, and our thanks to Spain for requesting that this item be included on the agenda today, and our appreciation to both the Belgian and Spanish presidencies. For all your work in progressing the new Genomic Techniques [00:10:30] proposal during your presidencies. European agriculture is facing a multitude of challenges, from climate change to unstable global supply chains and accelerating global competition. There is an urgent need to make our food system more sustainable and to strengthen the EU's resilience. Plants obtained by NTS have the potential to address these challenges and deliver benefits to farmers and consumers. Ireland supported the compromise text, and we strongly endorse continued work so that the council can reach an agreement [00:11:00] on this important proposal. Thank you. Chair.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Thanks very much, Maria. And thank you, Kostas too. I welcome the publication earlier this month of the conclusions of the implementation dialogue for small scale coastal fisheries, where Commissioner, you were instrumental in facilitating that. Now, in relation to the next steps, I note that the Commission intends to make use of the outcomes of this dialogue to assist small scale and coastal fishermen and women who are an integral to our coastal communities, with over 80% of the Irish fleet consisting of inshore vessels under 12m. This sector is vital to the economic, social and indeed the economic fabric of rural, coastal and island communities. Ensure representation has improved significantly in Ireland in recent years, with active participation in consultative processes influencing the management of Ireland's fish quotas within national policy. And while I acknowledge that the inshore sector faces ongoing challenges, I wish to stress that the voices of inshore fishermen and women are being heard and Ireland remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the sustainability of small scale and coastal fisheries, both nationally and at EU level. Thank you very much.”
Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
- “(14:18:50 – 14:19:25): Many different views around this table. And I know that the work you're doing is incredible, and I know that you will progress this, matter, very, very carefully, very skillfully in the next few weeks. And we look forward to that, and we're very grateful for your work And because I think this is a moment for all of us to consider our positions on this, for all of us to look to, of course, member states to look to the national interest, but also the European interest as well and how we respond to the needs of the public. So we will certainly support the work of the Cyprus presidency in the coming weeks, and I will watch and learn. Thank you.”
EU political integration
- “Thanks very much, chair, and thanks to our Hungarian and German colleagues for bringing these pests to our attention and the risks that they pose, and to Italy for raising the wider issue. The availability of effective plant protection methods is an essential basis for sustainable and competitive agriculture in the EU, and in this regard, Ireland points to the Commission's pending Food and Feed Safety Simplification omnibus package, and we look forward to working with the Commission and with Member States to bring these proposals forward. Ireland also sees merit at the request, in the request to make high resolution satellite imagery available to help Member States detect infestations and monitor implementation of eradication measures and EU plant Health system. Incorporating this satellite imagery and AI is something that could be explored and anticipated. Thank you.”
Digital and precision farming
- “Thank you. Chair. Um, we're just in relation to Cstd. We have been consistently supportive of the objectives of the proposed directive. We have always sought to ensure that the proposal was ambitious, whilst striking the right balance of providing effective protections for stakeholders and ensuring that the measures to be met by companies are clear, they're proportionate and enforceable. Any actions in this area will be effective by taking on an EU wide basis. We had, however, a greater ambition for this proposal. We want to put that on the record at this meeting. That said, the current scaled back compromise for which we thank you for your work and thank the commission, will still be groundbreaking. It will still create legally binding obligations on the In-scope companies in respect of adverse impacts on human rights and on the environment. We consider the current text offers the best hope of securing agreement on this file. We will be supporting the text, but we do want to record our disappointment at the dilution of the ambition.”
Due diligence in supply chains (environmental and human rights)
- “51:25 – 10:52:22): Thank you very much, chair. I would just like to say a few words on this topic because our presidency is coming up, as you know. Firstly, I would like to thank the Cyprus presidency for their commitment to progressing this file. I would also like to thank the member states and the commission for all of their hard work contributing to the working party over the last few years. Ireland is committed to further progressing this work during our upcoming presidency, and we are looking forward to working with the member states and the commission on this. Thank you. Thank you very much. Jim, Romania has the floor now, Teodora.”
EU political integration
- “Thank you. Maria Ireland welcomes the review of the UTP directive, while noting that it has only been in operation for a short while. I believe that as far as possible, we should try to have a harmonised EU approach to UTP measures. We also need to avoid adding huge complexity to trade arrangements in Ireland. We established a new agency with a dual mandate to enforce UTP rules and to increase transparency in the agri food supply chain. The work of that agency has been very valuable in raising awareness among farmers and small food producers about their rights, and equally in ensuring that buyers, retailers and larger food businesses are aware of their responsibilities, particularly the need for transparency about the conditions attached to supply agreements. I believe that better communication to raise awareness and reduce the fear factor among producers is a really practical step we could take in a coordinated way at an EU level. Ireland also welcomes new measures to strengthen cross-border cooperation measures as an important development in strengthening the protection for those with less bargaining power in the food supply chain. In the review of any legislation, we need to keep simplification as our guiding principle. We look forward to engaging in that spirit in the Commission's upcoming workshop with Member States and UTP enforcement authorities, and in further steps leading to the intended targeted revision proposal. Thank you.”
EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
- “Thank you very much, Louise, for placing this item on the agenda. And I very much appreciate the efforts made by your presidency and keeping an ongoing focus on the implementation of strategic plans. This is valuable work and should continue. And I also want to thank Jonas and all the [00:15:00] commission for your for the comprehensive assessment of the first year of the strategic plans. On question one, the first year of CSP implementation in Ireland indicates that adequately supporting environmental actions leads to a high level of uptake. It is clear that farmers are willing to play their part in contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Cap, provided that adequate support is available to them. Ireland agrees that [00:15:30] the resources within the Cap cannot be the only instrument of response to the needs of the Union, and that other sources of funding must be mobilised to support this work. The increased complexity of the Cap programme and the challenges it presents for farmers and administrations must be acknowledged. There has been much discussion on these challenges during the Spanish presidency, and that has been very welcome and important. It is not surprising that changes in systems of this magnitude have placed additional burdens [00:16:00] on Member States and the commission alike.
The limitations of the amendment process is still a concern, so it is important that this work to simplify matters continues. On question two, Ireland would like to highlight the important roles that the EU and national Cap networks can play in supporting the exchange of information within and between Member States. As we move towards the challenge of evaluating the impacts of our interventions. We must provide the latest information to our farmers [00:16:30] and inform our citizens about the good work that farmers are doing. The polarisation of the argument between food security and sustainability is not helpful. We must promote what we are doing and continue to improve the sustainability of the sector. To conclude, we must remember that the plans are strategic in nature. We must allow time for the measures programmed to be implemented and for farmers and administrations to adjust. Ireland agrees with the need for a period of bedding down and [00:17:00] stability, and additionally, the evaluation plans must report on all elements of sustainability, economic, environmental and social, including the key role of the cap and supporting food security. This work will be vital to inform the strategic dialogue on the Cap post 2027. Thank you Jesus, and thank you, Luis.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thank you very much, chair. I would just like to say a few words on this topic because our presidency is coming up, as you know. Firstly, I would like to thank the Cyprus presidency for their commitment to progressing this file. I would also like to thank the member states and the commission for all of their hard work contributing to the working party over the last few years. Ireland is committed to further progressing this work during our upcoming presidency, and we are looking forward to working with the member states and the commission on this. Thank you.”
EU political integration
- “Thank you and thank you. Dan Ireland supports the partial general approach of the CF three proposal. Ireland. Thanks to presidency for their constructive leadership during the negotiations. The well balanced text, which takes geographical specificities into account, aligns with our funding priorities for cross-border transport and energy infrastructure until 2034. The CF Transport Ireland welcomes the inclusion of the European Maritime Space Ten-t ports and their hinterland connections, as well as the Dublin Belfast Link, which will pave the way for improved cross-border rail connectivity with Northern Ireland into the future. Regarding the military mobility aspects of the file, Ireland appreciates the CF proposal's emphasis on member state sovereignty and national decision making in respect of the identification and development of these dual use projects. So for CF Energy Ireland welcomes recognition of the specific characteristics characteristics faced by island member states. As an island on the periphery of Europe, Ireland faces inherent and enduring challenges to build cross-border energy infrastructure projects. However, connecting this significant generation potential of Ireland's offshore wind to areas of high demand will unlock benefits across the European market and build a genuine energy union. Ireland remains a consistent and strong supporter of European funding for renewable energy and indeed to achieve our decarbonisation targets. The funding provided by the Connecting Europe facility is essential for the continued development of renewable energy. Ireland expresses our disappointment at the late amendment to energy program objectives, which reduced the focus on renewable energy. We see this as a dilution of our ambitions for renewable energy. However, in the spirit of compromise, we will accept the language as it currently stands. And again with thanks again to the presidency for their work on this file. Ireland is hopeful that the CEF will help to equitably deliver a decarbonised, sustainable and resilient transport and energy network across all Member States. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, Allan. I agree with Steffi that this decision is about maintaining and building trust in our union for if we do not adopt the law today, how would you negotiate any future text? How would you rego to a compromise if you expect to? Well, this could be changed after an agreement is made. It would fundamentally undermine the institutional arrangements of our union. So for that issue of trust, I believe we do have to approve the law today. I also agree with Teresa, there is no feud security in the world where nature is destroyed. The compromise that has been reached more than anything else was attentive to the concerns of our farming community, which are valid. This is a voluntary law in the sense of the measures that may have to be taken will not be a forced or imposed on any farmer or forester.
And in my mind, it is a real opportunity to answer what the farmers are protesting about, particularly the most marginal farmers in our union, that they need a fair income for protecting nature. And for that second reason, I believe we should approve the law here today. This will also be critical in adapting to our climate challenge. We know that in each of our countries, nature-based solutions are going to be the lowest cost, the most beneficial measures we can take in reducing emissions and also in discussing adaptation, which we will today. We know that again, nature-based solutions to protect against flooding, to protect against excessive heat, drought, as well as excessive rains is again the best lowest cost solution for our union. This is a politically divisive issue. We know that, but I believe the public are with us regardless of the grouping. One is in, I believe actually there is a fundamental reason why we should support this law.
I'm a conservative, I'm a green, but I'm conservative in the sense that I want to conserve our natural systems. I want to protect creation. We are not separate from it. We are part of nature and we destroy nature. We undermine our very own health and security. And the wonder of living in this world, restoring nature, restores soils, it improves water quality, it improves air quality, it improves our health, and that's why we should support it here today. Lastly, if I can ly in aura, she said we need a future orientated decision today, which is why she is voting in favour. And I think she's absolutely right. This vote would give hope for the future. A sense that our political systems can restore confidence and hope and collaboration in the same way that nature does. When we give it space to come back, it comes back strong. A future vote today would strengthen our union, our political system, as well as the natural world. Thank you.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “We look forward to engaging with the forthcoming Commission proposal to revise the Reach. Ireland Ion supports simplifying chemical rules while preserving protections for human health and the environment, ensuring competitiveness and safety for the chemicals industry. We are supportive of simplifying access to state aid, but this must not must be targeted, monitored and to avoid market disruption. Furthermore, we must avoid European industries becoming more overly reliant on public support. Using public procurement to favour EU based industry may increase costs, especially where Europe lacks any competitive advantage. Some member states could face significant additional costs with limited benefit for domestic industries. Ireland supports a balanced and outward looking approach to improving competitiveness. Eu industry grounded in maintaining openness to global investment and resilient strategic supply chains, Ireland continues to express caution regarding approaches that could result in undesirable negative impacts on EU competitiveness, and therefore we do not support a broad application of Of European preference. It should only be permitted in clearly defined circumstances in a proportionate way, where there are strategic imperative to reduce critical vulnerabilities or build capacity within the EU. Long term competitiveness depends on cost efficiency, fiscal sustainability and steady progress on the green transition. Thank you.”
Chemicals regulation
- “Thank you. Marcus, I want to I want to thank you and the Cyprus presidency for for your work. And indeed I want to support your proposed approach, which includes, I think, a very welcome increase in the frequency of meetings as set out in the paper. I very much agree with the commissioner with Marie-Louise. This this is a transformational project, and therefore it's a project that, if it were to get this over the line, is going to require a political leadership and political direction. And the political direction from Ireland to our team is, is very simple. It's, let's get this done, let's try and get this done. Let's try and get this done this year, and that has to be the scale of collective ambition that we set for ourselves. But I also know that to make that happen, it is going to require intensive political engagement, not just on the areas we agree on, but on the areas in which we need to find a landing zone. We all say that we're in favor of Siu and I believe we are, but we also have to acknowledge there are areas in which we need to work through the detail and try and find a pragmatic way forward to get this project over the line once and for all, for the European Union, for our citizens, for our economic resilience, security and well-being.”
EU-Ukraine relations
- “Thank you Marcus. And I want to begin by acknowledging the significant work already done under the Cyprus presidency on what is a critical set of files. And I want to thank you for tabling this discussion today. I know our officials have had a good technical read through of the package, and this is our second time having a political discussion on this matter under your presidency, and I think that is is required. We all know that we urgently need to deepen and strengthen our capital markets, that much we're all agreed on. I think the question for us now is what in the limited time that we have, can we realistically achieve that will make a material difference in meaningfully advancing the package? That means that we all need to be focusing on achieving more consistent outcomes, more certainty, and practical measures that reduce fragmentation and support the deepening of our single market. In that regard, I think I think the word balance is important. Balancing the local knowledge and the expertise and the proximity and the accountability of national competent authorities with the convening and coordinating powers of ESMA, can and should play a significant role in the solution. Stronger convergence tools for ESMA. Clearer cooperations with the Ncas should allow us to deliver deeper and better functioning capital markets quickly and in a more cost effective manner. I agree that the package must remain disciplined on cost, proportionate in its design, and it does need to focus on avoiding duplication or layered structures that would add complexity rather than meet our simplification and competitiveness agenda. And I know we're all united in that, where we decide to enhance esma's powers must be based on where the risk arises to the EU market, and it should be done to aid in delivering better, consistent outcomes, ensuring consistent levels of supervision throughout the union and most importantly, building trust among national supervisors and policy makers.”
Financial regulation
- “Thank you Stephanie. So to deal with each of your three questions, firstly, Ireland is fully supportive of your ambition to reach agreement on the digital Euro and the full single currency package in 2025. I thank the previous presidency, in particular the Polish presidency, for their work to get to this point. Secondly, I think you've identified the key issues that we need to focus in on, and all of the other issues that you have listed in your note, apart from the current discussion that we are having on holding limits. I think the issue of compensation and what the economic model of the digital euro will be is one that requires at least a high level of political awareness, if not further political discussion. And then on question number three. I just want to emphasize the importance of making clear again and again that the digital euro is not a project designed to end the use of cash. And in fact, in the overall package, we have a clear legal proposal looking to put the use of cash on the strongest possible foundations. I'm struck again and again about the inaccurate charges that are made against this project, and the need to make a very positive and compelling case, particularly around the use of cash. Thank you. Stephanie.”
Digital euro
- “Thank you Theresa. I think I'm like some other colleagues here. I covered the transport as well as the energy as well as the environment portfolio. And I think in decarbonization, transport is going to be the hardest area because it's embedded in long term investment [00:28:00] patterns that are difficult to change. And on transport, the heavy goods vehicle is probably the most difficult. So I absolutely support the paper and the commission's proposals that we need to give signals, investment signals here. The industrial other industries will be under the scope three emissions reductions looking for low carbon transport solutions. I want them to be buying European brands. I want that to be Mercedes-Benz or Man or Scania or Iveco, our European trucks and buses, not from other other [00:28:30] countries where they could be provided. And therefore I think it's important we give a strong signal. This is the switch we're making. I don't think the use of the carbon correction factor will help in that regard. We already have onto the Renewables Energy Directive regulations of renewable fuels. And while the Co two standard is concerned with tailpipe emission of new HGVs, including a credit for the use of renewable fuels within this file will lead to a double counting of the use of renewable fuels, which would present [00:29:00] difficulties. Lastly, I'd say just the point as I made we are already switching in urban buses. We have regulations not for 2030 but for now to to start making this switch. And that's my key message. Let's make sure that everyone's buying European and this by setting the standards which allow European manufacturers have the certainty they need to make the switch we all need.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “Thanks very much, chair. And on the first question of the key. The Commission's work programme puts in place a structured mechanism for reviewing the A key and for proposing further omnibus proposals in future years. We note that the aim is to ultimately review the entire acquis to capture cumulative cumulative impacts, identify inconsistencies and simplify it. And we welcome this review and look forward to further clarity on the methodology being used to guide that process on the omnibus itself. Firstly, we think it's important that we don't lose sight of the objectives of the CS triple D, which aims to promote responsible business conduct. And just to say that we want we're highly supportive of this agenda. We want better regulation, not deregulation, in the context of optimizing the competitiveness of the EU companies in the evolving global trading environment, and ensuring proportionality of the CS triple G framework. Ireland is supportive in principle of initiatives to simplify the reporting requirements and reduce costs on European companies, and most especially for SMEs. We are supportive of the early adoption of the proposals contained in the omnibus, and noting that not all member states have transposed the CS or D, and for us, this means that Irish companies and those in Member States who have already transposed the legislation remain at a competitive disadvantage until the new proposal is agreed. Turning to taxonomy. While the texts remain under consideration, we can broadly endorse the initiatives aimed at refining the regulation, particularly those that that offer substantive relief to SMEs by alleviating their administrative obligations.”
Energy (green transition)
- “And we very much appreciate the work that's been done on this file and support the updating of Urban Water Waste Treatment Directive. There are going to be a lot of challenges with that. With the high level of ambition, the tight timeframes that are proposed and significant financial investment that will be required. So it's understandable that this has been a complex negotiation process. We agree [00:33:30] with the high level of ambition and efforts in the directive to further protect water quality. We support the Council's text and thank the presidency for the progress made in the file. In particular, we welcome the approach in relation to supporting the in relation to pursuing energy neutrality in the wastewater sector. And we also support the council's text in relation to limiting values for nitrogen and phosphorus. We agree with the inclusion of an effective and equitable extended producers responsibility. Article [00:34:00] in the proposed directive, as this reflects the polluter pays principle with the inclusion of the adjustment in recital 13. With these points, as I said, I very much commend the work that's been done and look forward to this being successfully agreed in the trilogue process.”
Water pollution
- “Thank you very thank you very much, Vasilek, for the opportunity to have this ministerial exchange of views on the next EU work plan for culture. And thank you to everyone for the extremely interesting input to today's discussion.
As the incoming presidency, Ireland is preparing to bring the EU work plan for culture 2027 to 2030 forward as a council resolution at our next ministerial meeting on the November 20. Ireland has engaged bilaterally on this matter over recent months with ministries of culture, European institutions, and sectoral stakeholders, and we will continue to do so over the coming months through both oral and written consultations.
The political direction provided today will be invaluable in shaping these further consultations and provide a strong basis for development of the work plan. It is clear from today's debate that there are a wide number of pressing issues facing our sector and also some clear alignment on priority topics to be addressed in the next work plan, including, for example, culture's role in in crisis preparedness and social cohesion, strengthening the creative economy, the protection of sustainable careers and culture, and access and increasing participation in culture.
We also recognize the need for flexibility and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing context. We also note the various comments on the alignment between the work plan and culture compass. Ireland is committed to delivering an impactful work plan for culture that improves and benefits our collective creative and cultural sectors. Our door will remain open to all of you to discuss this further at any time.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you very much Attila. Um, this non-paper supported by the Belgian, German and Netherlands governments, calls upon the commission to consider the risks associated with a recent trend in increase in the palm oil mill effluent derived biofuel supply to the European Union relative to estimated global availability, and to carry out an examination with a view to prevention of possible biofuel fraud, ensuring sustainable biofuel supply into our union, and a level playing pitch for EU biofuel producers. In response, what we're seeing in response to our recent incentives for advanced biofuel supply, there are indications of a significant increase in palm oil mill effluent amounts that appear disproportionately large in comparison to estimated possible global availability of this type of biofuel. And because this is an EU wide phenomenon, not just occurring in a small number of markets, I think it warrants an EU wide investigation. And that's important for consumer confidence in the sustainability of what we're doing. But also, as I said earlier, to support EU biofuel producers. So I very much appreciate the chance to bring this item to the agenda today.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “Thank you. Maria Ireland fully supports the AOB tabled by Latvia. Many of the other member states and suggests that the Commission consider a review of current practices in order to bring real simplification to cap for our farmers and administrators alike.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you, Istvan, and thank you to Portugal for the paper. Ireland agrees that it is important to consider the potential role that drones could play in enabling the targeted application of plant protection products as part of integrated pest management. It is also important that there are appropriate, harmonised risk assessment and risk management procedures within the existing regulatory framework for plant protection products, so that conditions for safe and effective use can be clearly identified by the Member State competent authorities. Therefore, we support the proposal and Ireland will work closely with other Member States and the Commission in this regard. Thank you.”
Digital and precision farming
- “Thirdly, with reference to Spain's AOB item, we now need to accelerate these in-depth discussions between Member States and the Commission on how the governance structures will work in practice. There are also a number of other important issues that we need to address. These include. Openness to a collaboration with the rest of the world while managing research, security and dual use considerations. Prioritizing excellence to maximize the impact of our research and innovation investment. Making sure that we recognize the importance of research and innovation collaboration beyond the ECF, especially for societal benefits. Enhancing transdisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaboration using Horizon Europe instruments such as the EIC solely as a tool to enable, rather than directly fund defense applications. Ensuring simplification measures. Meaningfully reduce bureaucracy and boost participation, particularly for SMEs. Earlier this month, European leaders reaffirmed the critical role of research and innovation in boosting competitiveness, and all of us around this table have collective responsibility for optimizing that contribution of research and innovation to our wider political strategic priorities. We now need to work closely and efficiently together to come up with and implement a framework programme that can deliver on that potential. And I want to thank again my colleague as chair, and we fully support the Cyprus presidency in all of your efforts.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “Unless I have moved. Contrary. I think I'm still Ireland. But thanks very much, Maria. And thank Louis for raising this very important issue. And I want to say that I fully support what you're what you're trying to achieve here. And I know Denmark has rolled in. We also support the implementation of a robust control system to support the sustainable management of our fisheries. But in order to be effective and to support a level playing field both within the EU and with third countries, our control system should be enforceable, contribute to regulatory simplification and avoid unnecessary administrative burdens on both the operators and on member states. So, in relation to the catch system, Ireland's Control Authority has been engaging with the Commission on the development and implementation of the system. However, this has not been without some considerable difficulties in terms of the practical implementation, and it is vital that the Catch system reduces administrative burden and is fit for purpose to ensure buy in from the sector and provide the sustainable management of our fisheries resource. Regarding concerns that you have rightly raised in relation to article 14 of the Control Regulation, Ireland recalls the need for the EU control system to avoid unnecessary regulatory and administrative burdens in order to maximize its effectiveness. Ireland looks forward to continuing to engage with the Commission and fellow Member States through your leadership and your very significant knowledge of this area to implement a robust and effective fisheries control framework. Thank you.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- “Thank you Theresa. To answer your two questions, Ireland can live with the latest version of the text. But if there's one. Your second question. [00:21:00] Is there something in particular that we think is important? I believe it's very important that we maintain and develop an interconnected electricity market in Europe for the benefit of all of our citizens. In that regard, I'd be supportive of the proposal coming from the German government, and I'll explain why later. But if I can just first of all, set out what I see as the key to this issue, which is how we keep ourselves competitive in a global sense, as also with each other. And we have a real [00:21:30] challenge because we know America can use cheap frack gas for low electricity or energy prices, but they cannot do that for long if climate change is to be addressed. And similarly, we know China can build new coal, cheap coal. But again, that's similarly has to stop. If we're going to stop the world burning, the future is going to be in electrification and in my mind, particularly renewable power. Yes, there will be some people will have new nuclear. But I remember talking to a colleague from this table last week saying, [00:22:00] well, we could put in new nuclear if we can get it for under 100MW, €100 a megawatt hour.
[00:22:05] I don't think that's going to happen, but I know renewables is going to be that sort of price or below. And it's ubiquitous. It belongs everywhere. So our advantage is in developing this clean electricity economy. We are good at it. We can be competitive and better than America. Who are they going to win because of their tax breaks? Their Congress can't agree whether it's Tuesday and Wednesday or Wednesday any day. Whereas I think we have shown in our [00:22:30] ability to deliver the fit for 55 legislation that we can set in place the regulations that will be optimal for this new industrial revolution. And similarly, China can do things with great centralized control. They have incredible manufacturing capability in solar PV. But can they connect it? Can they balance it? Can they use it in the way that we can in Europe, in terms of new power systems that are agile and flexible and in that way competitive now [00:23:00] at the interconnection is key. I am very glad that we have a new French connection. We're going to be building interconnection with France, and I think it actually benefits both sides. It makes power cheaper on both sides of that Celtic Sea, because when the wind is blowing, we can sell it to the French, and when it's not we can import the lower cost nuclear.
[00:23:19] And I think it's the same right across our union. We have diverse energy supplies in hydro, in wind, solar, in nuclear. But it's the balancing capability [00:23:30] which is really key. And that's why I think the legislation here is important. It's important that we do protect the single market. And that's why I think the German amendment makes eminent sense. I mean, it's kind of the starting block of our European Union treaty for the functioning of the European Union. The Commission will monitor and oversee what that we have a fair market. Lastly, can I just offer my condolences? I forgot to do the start for my Belgian and Swedish colleagues. [00:24:00] In this terror, we have a responsibility to show strength and decisiveness and purpose. Theresa, yesterday you said you were keeping the translators until 12:00, but we didn't need them until that late. We were able to get agreement at the Environmental Council in a really good way, like Cinderella tonight. I don't think you need to be waiting until 12:00 for us to get agreement. Surely the basic principles here are not divisive. We can agree on. We need a single market. We need balancing capability. We need to be good at this new electricity [00:24:30] revolution, which we will be, and we get agreement on that. Text Theresa, with your guidance long before that hour strikes tonight.”
EU energy infrastructure integration
- “Thank you. Look, we very much support this initiative by the Commission to reduce regulatory burden, to simplify EU laws. And that's very welcome. Um, I just want to raise one matter in relation to the energy performance of buildings directive that we've we've written to the Commission in relation to we've done well in Ireland. We've phased out fossil fuel boilers. Over 70% of our buildings now have energy performance certificates. But I just raised this in the context of cost and the housing challenges we have right the way across Europe. So just seek the further engagement with the Commission in that regard in relation to the Energy Performance of Buildings directive, to thank them for their engagement so far, but to seek flexibility with like minded member states as well, just to ensure that we're not adding additional costs to particularly to new build homes and affordable homes. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “We suggest that we need a higher level of ambition than the Connecting Europe facility is currently providing. It's been very good, but I think we need the next order of magnitude of the investment. We need new cables, which will provide for redundancy and resilience in a time of war. We also need a fast fixing crew, so we need some kind of force that can repair the cables because they are going to continue to be broken. And lastly, on the green objectives, um, we agree with Minister Caroline from, from Denmark that resource efficiency is very important. But at the same time, we also need to think about our adaptation for when these disastrous events happen. So I'm thinking of the floods in Valencia, and we also had floods in Ireland that directly affected communications infrastructure. And when I talked to the communications companies, they had not been putting that design criteria in when they were putting in their communications networks. They're not thinking about about climatic disasters. So really that's that's something that we need to recommend or to, to legislate for with communications companies is that they are climate resilient and that they are thinking about extreme weather events. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “Thank you. Ireland supports this paper on competition policy and the need for robust and effective competition and state aid policies, as well as the effective enforcement of related rules. Reforms must be supported by robust evidence, respect for the core principles of effective competition, and ensure openness and contestability of the single market. We stressed that in market consolidation and deregulation should only occur where there is robust market specific evidence for the benefits, and the effective competition should remain a cornerstone of any such proposal. In a complex global environment, a strong competition framework remains one of the EU's most powerful tools for ensuring competitiveness, innovation and resilience. Therefore, we are very happy to support this paper by our colleagues from Finland and we fully support the view that resilience depends on diversity, open markets and competitive pressure.”
EU Competition policy
- “Thank you, Chair. And I'd like to welcome the inclusion of this topic on our agenda. We agree with Commissioner Valean that we must work closely with all stakeholders to meet the demand for air services this summer and to keep the European sky open. Ireland, like all other Member states, face difficulties due to unexpectedly high demand for air travel last summer, and I've put [00:12:00] a strong focus on planning for summer 2023 at a national level. The forecasted 15% increase in traffic levels requires all of us here to work together to meet the demand of our citizens and airlines. I welcome the calls from Member States, the Commission and Eurocontrol to work together to make this summer an operational success. And we must continue to make progress on single European skies to the benefit of all European citizens who are regularly who are negatively impacted at times in 2022 and [00:12:30] also in 2023 with strikes and other disruptions. We must aim to maximise the use of the airspace available to us and keep our skies open this summer so people can have their holiday plans and continue to travel. Europe has one of the most open and connected air transport markets in the world. It is up to us to uphold the single market principle and the free movement of people, and we must ensure that we continue to have a safe and efficient air travel experience for all our citizens. Thanks very much. [00:13:00]”
EU policy on aviation safety
- “Thank you, sir. And I'd like to thank my Austrian colleague for raising this matter and the presidency for including it on today's agenda. Great progress has been made on several fit for 55 files, and we expect that the emissions trading system for aviation and refuel EU aviation will deliver important environmental benefits. However, in the interest of fairness and the pursuit of our climate goals, it's crucial that all sectors [00:04:30] of aviation contribute to emissions reduction efforts, including private jets. All reasonable options to ensure that these types of operations make their full contribution to our climate goals should be fully explored and evaluated. While Ireland is beginning its consideration of this issue at a national level, a collective European approach to addressing regulatory and environmental matters is also important. As such, we welcome the opportunity to begin this discussion and are interested in hearing the views of the Commission and other Member States on this important [00:05:00] issue. Thank you.”
Decarbonisation of aviation sector
- “Um. Thank you. Chair. Comes the Commissioner's commitment to develop a new culture compass, giving the Commission and Member States a clear strategic framework to work towards in our shared efforts, the Culture compass must respond to the needs of the creative sectors as well as wider geopolitical contexts. It's clear that a number of key priorities facing the creative and cultural sectors in Europe need our urgent attention. For Ireland, these priorities include improving working conditions for artists and addressing the precarious nature of work in the sector in Ireland. Our pilot, Basic Income for the Arts, gives 2000 artists a basic income payment of €325 per week. Early research on the scheme is very positive, with those benefiting reporting an increase in wellbeing, reduce depression and anxiety, more time to engage with their practice and less work in other sectors. Protecting cultural heritage, including from the impacts of climate change and conflict. Addressing the impact of artificial intelligence and the sector and protection of artists rights. Continuing to address the intersection of health and culture. Continuing to foster culture's role in strengthening our democracies and building social inclusion. In this regard, I am inspired by projects like GEF in my own localities in Limerick that does so much to leverage culture support, to give voice to disadvantaged communities and seldom heard voices. Mainstreaming of culture across other sectors at EU level will also be important to increase the impact of our work. For example, in the context of the recent proposed United States tariffs on the film sector. European Union trade policy will need to work with and to support, as appropriate, the free trade in cultural goods and services. This is especially the case given the European Union competence in this area. Tariffs are bad for trade and for growth, and uncertainty provoked by talk of tariffs is worse for the industries concerned. Ensuring adequate EU cultural funding will be critical as outlined by all 27 EU culture ministers in December last year. The Creative Europe programme has been, and continues to be an essential instrument for protecting and promoting cultural diversity, cultural heritage and creativity and nurturing the audiovisual sector in Europe. We welcome the clear statements, Commissioner, and your commitment to ensuring adequate funding for culture and creative sectors at EU level. While discussions on the structure of the next MFF are ongoing, we continue to maintain that standalone culture funding is the best way to ensure ring fenced and targeted funding to support our actors across Europe. While we recognise that the challenges facing the creative sector are many, retaining a core focus on production cooperation, collaboration between artists in line with the Creative Europe's original vision will be essential.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank [00:17:30] you, Chair. And thank you, Commissioner, for the update and to the presidency for putting this item on the agenda. Regrettably, packaging waste continues to increase. In principle, Ireland welcomes the high ambition of the proposals and considers that they are coherent with circular economy principles. It is important, however, when considering packaging waste that we do not lose sight of either food safety or food waste. Packaging material is linked to preservation and shelf life of food products. Any unforeseen consequences [00:18:00] such as increasing food waste needs careful assessment. I welcome the fact, Peter, that you have sought the views of Agri Fish Council on this proposal and it is important to consider it carefully in this regard. Higher risk foods, including fresh meat, may need packaging with greater plastic content to prevent leakage and allow the use of vacuum packaging and modified atmosphere packaging. We reuse, refill and recycling of packaging present greater challenges for food of animal origin due [00:18:30] to the microbiological load which must be removed before the packaging can be recycled. It will be necessary to carefully balance the environmental costs of such deep cleaning against the benefits of recycling, reuse and refill targets for packaging regarding food and beverages needs to ensure that they do not jeopardise the resilience of food systems as they aim to deliver the best environmental outcomes. Plastic packaging materials may be subject to multiple recycling events. [00:19:00] Ireland considers the European Food Safety Authority should examine how this will affect the chemical properties of the plastic and the migration of chemicals into foods of animal origin.”
Re-use of packaging
- “Ireland thanks the Commission for this helpful update and its very quick response on this issue, and also the presidency and the Parliament for progress, for progressing the legislation so promptly. The amendment strikes the best balance between mitigating the impending shortages risk, while also facilitating the full and effective implementation of the Medical Devices regulation and the In Vitro Devices Regulation. We welcome the broader work that's underway on persisting fundamental challenges, and look forward to all root causes being addressed in full. The EU needs a reliable and sustainable regulatory framework in place to ensure a high level of safety and health, and the fostering of safe innovation. Thank you president.”
Medical devices
- “(14:51:32 – 14:53:47): Yes. I'm happy to to also, address that important question. As you know, back in 2021, the European Commission put forward a proposal, to extend the list of EU crimes in the treaty and the functioning of the European Union, to hate speech and hate crime, the adoption of which would be a critical step to address emerging threats, and to fill the gaps.
But as you know, this requires, the council to act unanimously, and I took the opportunity today to encourage the member states to, again, seriously reflect on this opportunity. This would then enable the commission to table a legislative proposal, to harmonize the criminal law response across the European Union, in this area.
We had a very open and frank discussion in relation to the issue today. I think there is, common agreement among the member states that hate speech and hate crime is a real scourge that we have to work together to address.
There is also, I think, a consensus on the need to fully respect the fundamental rights of EU citizens, including the right to freedom of expression and to express strongly held views that they may have on any issue.
And as you know, the commission has signaled in a number of recent strategies, including the LGBTIQ plus equality strategy, the anti racism strategy, and the communication on enhancing the strategy for the rights of persons with a disability, that we are considering a possible targeted response, that could rely on the union's competence to approximate criminal law in the area of compute computer crime under article 83 1 TFU, to address serious online offenses, particularly those that enable the rapid and mass dissemination of harmful and violent content.
So this is something that the commission has publicly indicated already. We will now reflect on the discussions that took place today as will the Cyprus presidency and the incoming Irish presidency to decide on what next steps may be appropriate in view of, the opinions that were conveyed today by member states.”
LGBTIQ+
- “Thank you Chair and can I begin by thanking the Danish presidency for bringing forward this really important discussion but also the Commission for their really positive efforts. We have two questions here. The first one is aligning vocational education and training with labor market needs.
I think the EU skills agenda including priorities outlined in the Union of Skills aligns very closely with Ireland's national priorities because we recognize as you have already said that skills are a key driver for economic competitiveness and social cohesion. Ireland is committed to delivering accessible pathways to upskilling and reskilling for all sectors of our workforce.
We work very closely with enterprise partners during program design to ensure that the people availing of learning opportunities are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in the workforce. This collaboration combined with real time labor market intelligence shapes curricula and ensures that programs respond to emerging sectors such as green technologies, digital transformation and advanced manufacturing.
So we must continue to work to ensure that our systems are fully inclusive and Ireland also provides supports for disadvantaged learners and we provide flexible delivery models. In regard to the second question about increasing attractiveness and gender balance particularly in STEM, we all know that VET must be a career path of choice and I was so pleased to hear the Commission describe it as plan A to try and achieve this.
Ireland has developed an action plan for apprenticeships, a range of cross government skills focused strategies and has taken significant steps to transform VET. Increased visibility is essential to boost attractiveness including through information campaigns that help parents, learners and employers to understand that a VET career is open to everyone and that's certainly a challenge in Ireland especially I might say where parents are concerned.
But through targeted adult learning initiatives we are creating inclusive pathways in diverse STEM areas including engineering, architecture, offshore wind as well as the pharma industry ensuring that STEM careers are accessible to all. Ireland is committed to improving gender balance through focus measures such as employer grants for gender diverse apprenticeships and national recruitment campaigns.
Ireland has seen modest increases in women's participation in apprenticeships however we still have a lot more work to do so we welcome the ongoing EU cooperation to enhance the quality, relevance and accessibility of VET and in particular we look forward to the next EU VET strategy. Let me conclude by thanking again the Danish presidency for its leadership and commitment over the past months and we look forward to continuing this work collaboratively under the incoming Cyprus presidency.”
Focus of EU policy on education (shaping workers vs citizens)
- “Thank you. President Arnold welcomes the Commission's communication on the 2040 climate target, and fully supports the adoption of a science based target in line with the Paris Agreement objective of limiting global temperature increase to 1.5°C. An ambitious intermediate EU 2040 target is an essential step to put the EU on a gradual and just transition towards climate neutrality by 2050. Meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement requires a global response. The 2040 Climate Target Initiative should help to foster international climate action and assist the EU in boosting international coalitions towards meeting the Paris Agreement's climate objectives. This will support climate goals, EU leadership and EU competitiveness. This must be supported by proper implementation of the 2030 framework, which is important for the EU's credibility at international level, as well as the acceptability of the increasing effort on the first question of competitive and just transition. Arnold welcomes the focus on both competitiveness and a just and fair transition. It is essential that the 2040 target and Post 2030 framework support the transition towards climate neutrality in a manner that is sustainable, that protects the competitiveness of both the individual member states and the bloc as a whole, and ensures that no one is left behind. The 2040 target and post 2030 framework can serve as the foundation for sustaining and developing the competitiveness of the EU and Member States.
The debate around competitiveness must not lose sight of the economic opportunities of early and ambitious climate action, as well as the risks and costs of inaction. Effective climate action will support competitiveness and economic growth in the medium and long term, providing stable signal to investors and trading partners, and avoid the risks of getting locked into a redundant fossil fuel model. Ramping up renewable energy production is essential for security of supply, but can also provide member states with a competitive advantage versus reliance on imported fossil fuels. It is important to find an outcome that is sustainable for individual member states, and that the updated EU 2040 target is delivered collectively by the EU, with all member states participating in this effort. Finally, a just transition is the fastest way to a greener transition. The only way that guarantees that we bring everybody with us as we move towards a climate neutral economy. Development of a forward looking EU just transition policy framework can enable consideration of just transition, target and interventions and enhance policy coherence across EU institutions and interventions. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “Thank you Jacob. Ireland recognizes and supports the Commission's intention to target income support more effectively towards those farmers who are most in need, particularly smaller and family farms. However, we remain concerned that the proposed capping and digressive measures could have unintended effects on productivity capacity, our productive capacity in Ireland. Initial modelling suggests that while only a small percentage of firms would be affected by digressive proposals, those firms account for a significant share of total agricultural output. These are the farms that underpin both national and EU food security, and reducing their support too sharply risks undermining production capacity and resilience. These farms most likely are also the ones most likely to attract new entrant young farmers. Also, the Cap must therefore balance fairness and competitiveness, ensuring adequate support for smaller farms while sustaining viable production at all levels. Flexibility will be key so that Member States can take account of regional realities. Labour intensity and sectoral needs. In response to the presidency's second question, Ireland recognised that food security faces a range of risks from geopolitical instability, trade disruptions to climate shocks and input shortages. Strategic reserves of key agricultural products could help mitigate these risks. However, Ireland believes any such reserves must be designed carefully. They should remain exceptional, transparent and market orientated. More broadly, Ireland remains seriously concerned that the proposed Cap budget as part of the wider NRP framework is not sufficient to deliver on economic, social and environmental objectives.”
Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
- “Many thanks. Ireland welcomes the policy paper, and many thanks to the presidency for the opportunity to debate this proposal. And to answer the presidency's question. Yes, we are of the view that more flexibility is required both in the area of avoidance actions and more broadly across the proposal. And maybe if I could just briefly, on the proposal as a whole, we have serious concerns in particular about title five [00:45:00] on directors duties. Title six on the proposed new, simplified, winding up procedure for micro-enterprises and the inclusion in the scope of the proposal of natural persons who meet an extremely wide definition of entrepreneur. In Ireland, we have an insolvency framework that is highly developed and well performing, and we are concerned that these proposals would have a negative impact on the effectiveness of that framework. Turning to today's discussion, and in particular avoidance [00:45:30] actions and title two of the proposal, we already have stringent avoidance provisions to annul unfair or fraudulent payments made by insolvent businesses or individuals at the expense of their creditors generally, and the directors. The Directive's proposals in this area, in our view, are too detailed. They need to be more flexible if they are to work effectively across member states, different national laws and systems. If I could give a few examples, the [00:46:00] minimum harmonisation principle in article five should apply to all avoidance provisions entitled to certain issues should remain matters for national law, such as the definition of insolvency or the limitation period for any claim. Member States should retain the option to provide for avoidance actions to be brought by bankruptcy officials, as well as by creditors, and the time limits for avoidance actions should be calculated from a date that is clear and [00:46:30] ascertainable across different national systems, that of the opening of insolvency proceedings. So in our view, the proposal will need continued further work at technical level, and we stand ready to continue our discussions with the Commission and other Member States to resolve these concerns. Thank you.”
Jurisdiction conflicts between EU and national courts
- “(14:42:40 – 14:50:20): Thank you very much, and good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. As you know, today marked the last meeting of EU justice ministers under the Cyprus presidency, and I would like to begin by thanking the Cyprus presidency for your ambitious program in the area of justice. Costas, can I thank you personally, for all of your work and, all of your team for the immense contribution that you have made in recent months? And thank you for your excellent chairmanship of the meetings. Your military background, I think, was very evident with the efficiency, that you employed in managing the meetings.
Can I say that today, we covered, the fight against impunity in the context of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the regulation on the cross border establishment and recognition of parenthood, the justice program under the next MFF, the European Public Prosecutor's Office, and international agreements on judicial cooperation with Eurojust? And, just now, over a working lunch, we also discussed a discourage of hate speech and hate crime.
And I also took the occasion to present some of the key findings from this year's justice scoreboard, that the commission presented only yesterday.
To begin with Ukraine, the commission continues to work to ensure accountability for the heinous crimes committed in and against Ukraine. In recent weeks, we have seen some of the most brutal assaults on civilians and critical infrastructure. To hold those accountable for this war of aggression, I reiterated to ministers the importance of the timely establishment of the special tribunal for the crime of aggression.
Just last month, the commission notified the Council of Europe of the EU's intention to join the enlarged partial agreement on the management committee of the special tribunal. The EU participated in the adoption of this agreement on the May 15, and we continue to encourage member states to join the 36 countries, which have already expressed their intention to join.
Justice for Ukraine and for Ukrainians also means reparations for the damages caused, and that is why today I also reiterated the important the importance of the swift establishment of the International Claims Commission for Ukraine.
Depriving the Russian Federation Of its means to wage oppressive war is also an essential part of bringing about a just and lasting peace to Ukraine. So we will also continue our fight against the violation of sanctions through ensuring the complete and accurate transposition of the directive on sanctions violations.
I also exchanged views with ministers on finding a way forward for the regulation on the cross border establishment and recognition of parenthood. This is an important file. It's about protecting the rights of all children in cross border situations across our union, ensuring the parenthood is recognized in other member states for all purposes.
We discussed next steps towards completing a text that ensures equality for all children in the European Union, and I encourage the incoming Irish presidency to conclude our discussions.
I also took the opportunity to welcome the recent political agreement reached under proposed regulation on the cross border protection of adults, filed at Costas has just highlighted and which was a very important milestone to have achieved.
Today, we also built in the progress achieved under the Cyprus presidency regarding the justice program under the next MFF for 2028 to 2034. With the adoption of the partial general approach, we have reached an important moment. I would like to congratulate the presidency on this achievement.
Today's justice council also included a discussion on the EPO, the European Public Prosecutor's Office, with this week actually marking 5 years since the EPO had began its operations. We discussed the evaluation of the EPO regulation expected to conclude before the summer break and, its possible revision.
Strengthening the EPO is an essential part of the EU's anti fraud architecture, and this is why I was very glad to welcome that Hungary has notified its intention, to join the EPO. And today, the Irish minister for justice also confirmed that next year, Ireland, would intend, to join the EPO, another very welcome step.
Today, we are more effective in protecting the union's budget, the rule of law, and democracy for all citizens across our union.
I also welcomed the opportunity to discuss strengthening judicial cooperation between Eurojust and 3rd countries. Eurojust plays a crucial role in providing operational support to member states authorities in investigating and prosecuting a serious cross border crime such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, organized crime gangs, and money laundering.
Through international agreements with non EU countries, these countries can share data, be part of joint investigation teams, and 2nd liaison prosecutors, to Eurojust. And just last month, the council took the next step towards finalizing an agreement with Lebanon, and we aim to have the council's authorization to sign an agreement with Algeria before the summer break.
During our working lunch, we discussed a discourage of hate speech and hate crime, an assault not only on the dignity of a person, but also on the equality in our societies and the democratic fabric that binds our European Union together.
Freedom of expression lies at the heart of our European Union values, but incitement to violence or hatred has no place in our union. We discussed possible measures that could help better protect victims online and offline and uphold our common values so that everyone can live, without fear and with dignity.
Yesterday, the commission presented the EU justice scoreboard for 2026, and I would like to close with a word on this. Every year, the scoreboard provides a comparative overview of the indicators on the efficiency, quality and independence of justice systems across the member states.
In addition to these 3 areas of justice, the scoreboard includes indicators relevant for the functioning of the single market. In doing so, the scoreboard helps inform the European semester, the recovery and resilience facility, and the annual rule of law report, which we are now finalizing for 2026.
This year's novelties include new and updated figures on the quality of justice systems from children's access to justice to the digitalization of justice. Updated indicators on the independence of justice systems such as the perception data from Eurobarometer surveys and new data on the single market, including on the important role of independent authorities in its proper functioning.
Ultimately, the aim of the scoreboard is to enhance dialogue and cooperation with member states. This will help ensure that citizens across our union benefit from justice systems that are of high quality, that are efficient and independent, features that are essential to the EU's rule of law bedrock, and to our European democracies.
So thank you for the opportunity setting out those opening remarks. Thank you, commissioner. I will now open the floor to questions. Yes, please.”
Support for International Criminal Court
- “Thank you. Fernando. Good morning colleagues. I just want to start also very mindful of what has happened in recent days, to start by expressing my sympathy and indeed my solidarity with my Swedish, Belgian and French colleagues in [00:09:00] the wake of what has happened in recent days and recent weeks, and to say that we stand with you and support you. Absolutely. I want to thank the presidency, in particular, Ylva, for your hard work and all of your team's hard work on this particular issue. It is such an important file. And to say at the outset, Ireland is a strong supporter of this regulation. And I have to say, as a union and as colleagues around the table, we should be at the fore when it comes to combating child sexual [00:09:30] abuse online and offline. And it is hugely frustrating in the absence of European legislation, that we rely on the US to send us reports, reports containing information about abusers and victims, many of whom are our own citizens. So it is absolutely vital that we have our own new comprehensive European rules for online service providers and an EU centre that can provide these reports and support our law enforcement agencies, as we've heard from Ylva. [00:10:00] Many of the tens of millions of child sexual abuse images, material, videos that are reported every year are showing children who are being abused, who are being raped. And as we sit here and as we speak, there are children who are being abused and who are being raped. And we have an opportunity here to do something for them. These images, whether they're new, whether they're unknown, images, are not just evidence of a crime, but they are an opportunity for us to do something and to protect these children.
[00:10:29] And this is not theoretical [00:10:30] in my own country, in Ireland alone, in the last two years, over 100 child victims have been protected, have been supported, have been identified because of these reports that have been provided. So we're talking about real children here. We're talking about real lives. So I really do regret the intention to reduce the scope of the ambition of what we are talking about here. I think we need to be as ambitious as we can, but I do understand the need to respond to concerns that some colleagues do have here, and to try and find a compromise so we can support, [00:11:00] of course, in principle, the solutions that would foresee the extension of detection to new child sexual abuse material in grooming in the future based on specific evidence, and looking at technology and technical expertise. But for such solutions to work, it would be absolutely essential that the current regime of voluntary detection, as well as the new child sexual abuse material in grooming that they are maintained in the interim. So I do look forward to seeing this progress. It is absolutely vital that this is [00:11:30] agreed as a file before the end of this legislative term. And I would just echo Elva's sentiments when we look at this, and I know it's important that we protect people's privacy, people's rights, but preventing abuse and rape of children on a daily, hourly basis should be at the fore of our minds when we are looking at this issue overall. And I would ask colleagues to please take that into consideration, as I know you do when we're looking at this particular issue. It is so important [00:12:00] that we agree this file before the end of the legislative term. Thank you.”
Privacy & detection of online child abuse
- “Thirdly, with reference to Spain's AOB item, we now need to accelerate these in-depth discussions between Member States and the Commission on how the governance structures will work in practice. There are also a number of other important issues that we need to address. These include. Openness to a collaboration with the rest of the world while managing research, security and dual use considerations. Prioritizing excellence to maximize the impact of our research and innovation investment. Making sure that we recognize the importance of research and innovation collaboration beyond the ECF, especially for societal benefits. Enhancing transdisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaboration using Horizon Europe instruments such as the EIC solely as a tool to enable, rather than directly fund defense applications. Ensuring simplification measures. Meaningfully reduce bureaucracy and boost participation, particularly for SMEs. Earlier this month, European leaders reaffirmed the critical role of research and innovation in boosting competitiveness, and all of us around this table have collective responsibility for optimizing that contribution of research and innovation to our wider political strategic priorities. We now need to work closely and efficiently together to come up with and implement a framework programme that can deliver on that potential. And I want to thank again my colleague as chair, and we fully support the Cyprus presidency in all of your efforts.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “And best of luck in your next six months in the presidency role. Ireland welcomes the opportunity to discuss this critical issue. I thank Poland and Latvia for their support, along with other Member States who express their concern today regarding this important stock. As we are aware, for coastal states have come to an arrangement in relation to mackerel for 2026 as well as excluding the European Union, a key coastal state which has acted responsibly and engaged with our international partners in good faith on this matter. The total allowable catch on which the parties are basing their share is significantly higher than the headline advice provided by the International Council for the exploration of the seas. Last October, Ireland and fellow concerned member states highlighted the need for urgent action to protect this vitally important stock and make clear to other coastal states that the EU will not tolerate reckless behaviour that undermines its sustainability. We are now at a critical juncture and we need to take action in the first instance. We need to clarify on the EU's full quota for 2026. Ireland's mackerel fishery is seasonal, concentrated in the first half of the year. Therefore, we need to establish our full annual quota as soon as possible.”
Environmental regulation of fisheries
- “Thank you. And we thank the presidency for placing the industrial action plans on the agenda. It is timely for the council to discuss them and agree measures which should be prioritised. Achieving affordable and competitive electricity prices must be central to our efforts to ensure strong industrial future for Europe. This applies not only to the steel and metals, chemicals and automotive sectors, but also for semiconductors, cement, biotech, pharma and space. A whole of EU market solution is needed to fund grid and network expansion without increasing consumer energy costs. Private investment is essential for grid decarbonisation and renewable energy deployment. Targeted public funds should support, not replace, private capital. As Europe transitions to green energy, it must avoid losing existing manufacturing leadership to jurisdictions with cheaper energy or faster transitions. A whole of EU market solution is needed to fund grid and network expansion without increasing consumer energy costs. Private investment is essential for decarbonization and renewable development and deployment. Targeted public funds are critical for this. For the steel and metal sector, we support the commission efforts to stabilize the market through the raw materials mechanism, including demand aggregation and joint purchasing. However, we are cautious about export restrictions on aluminium scrap, which could disadvantage small member states. The forthcoming Circular Economy Act will be vital to create viable and robust single market for recycling and valuable materials. On chemicals, Ireland supports establishing the basic regulation for European Chemicals Agency to ensure it can meet expanding responsibilities and provide industry with certainty on future chemicals legislation.”
EU approach to electricity market and prices
- “Thank you. Chair, and thanks very much to Sweden and to Greece for sharing this information. And we'd like to extend our sympathies to those affected. As animal disease outbreaks have a devastating impact on farmers and their livestock. Eu action to support Member States in disease surveillance, coordination, preparedness and emergency response measures continues to be needed and consideration needs to be given on how best to effectively co-finance the necessary measures. Surveillance is key to the early detection of disease, which in turn facilitates timely control and eradication, and Ireland wants to emphasize the importance of ongoing communication, collaboration and engagement between member states and non EU countries regarding the prevention, detection and eradication of these diseases. Thank you.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “Thank you, president, for placing this item on the agenda today and for the background papers on this important topic. We welcome the chance to engage in the development and recast of the directive. Ireland agrees that the level of ambition is challenging, but in line with the aims of the proposed directive, where there are evident risks to human health or the environment, these new levels of ambition should be implemented. The proposed reduction in the allowable nutrient discharges in the proposed directive, and the expanded scope of the directive to require collection systems and secondary treatment in all smaller agglomerations are both extremely challenging. The size of an agglomeration and its associated treatment plant does not automatically equate to an environmental need. Therefore, we advocate that a fully informed, risk based framework be implemented in the recast directive. This framework can be formulated within the structure of the precautionary principle. Ireland agrees with the inclusion of an effective and equitable extended producer responsibility article in the proposed directive. As this reflects the polluter pays principle where there is an established environmental need for quaternary treatment based on a risk assessment rather than the size of the wastewater treatment plant, we agree that the quaternary treatment should be provided. The timelines of this proposal are extremely tight. Considering extended producer responsibility is a new requirement in the proposed directive. The inclusion of the target for energy neutrality for wastewater treatment plants is also ambitious, and in common with other elements of the directive, the timeframes are challenging. Ireland would welcome the inclusion of an allowance for energy generated from renewables offsite by a third party would be eligible in the provision for energy neutrality. Thank you president.”
Water pollution
- “In 2025, Sport Ireland commissioned Safe Sport International to conduct a needs analysis in the area of safe sport for adults. The analysis included extensive consultation with sport sector stakeholders, safe sport advocates and other relevant stakeholders, including people with lived experience in this area. Sport Ireland is currently considering the resultant report, which will be central to informing future guidance. As Minister, I fully support the implementation of effective safeguarding policies and procedures for adults and children across the sport sector, while acknowledging that our national governing bodies are independence dependent organisations. We must also remain conscious that additional procedures can place great pressures on in sporting organizations, which in turn can have a negative impact on volunteers, coaches and officials. And it is in the interest of all parties, of course, that the process or procedures that we ask our sports to implement are workable and efficient. There is a clear possibility for the Erasmus+ mobility Action in sport to help with training or sports staff and volunteers by promoting exchanges and interaction across Europe. We can allow our sports persons to engage with colleagues and learn what works in other systems, and develop ideas that they can use in their work. The European Sport Forum and the Be Active Awards are also good opportunities to promote best practices across Europe and build up our systems to reduce the physiological pressure on athletes. Thank you Athena.
**ΠΡΟΕΔΡΕΥΟΥΣΑ ΣΥΜΒΟΥΛΙΟΥ @Chair: Thank you so much, dear colleagues. Thank you all for today's valuable inputs and exchange of ideas and suggestions. You have shown that mental health in sport is firmly on the EU agenda and that we recognize the challenges faced by the sports sector. It has been made clear by your interventions that we need cross-sectoral solutions, inclusive focus and structural change. Your contributions today provide a strong foundation for continued work. I look forward to seeing how these insights might be translated into concrete cooperation at EU level, ensuring mental health becomes embedded in how we design and deliver sport across Europe. Thank you again for this engaging discussion. Now let me conclude this item on our agenda. The Council held an exchange of views based on the presidency steering note set out in document 7935/26. Before we continue with the next item on our agenda, we will say goodbye to our dear guests, we thank you so much for your contribution and valuable experience that you shared with us and wish them a safe return home. Thank you so much. Dear colleagues, we will now move to the any other business items on our agenda? I will pass the floor to the Netherlands with an information point on brain injuries in sports. Please, Maria, the floor is yours.”
EU volunteering programs
- “Thank you. Czeslaw. I want to begin by acknowledging the third anniversary of Russia's brutal and illegal war in Ukraine. Ireland continues to stand with Ukraine and also extend warm wishes to our Estonian colleagues um, under um, their special day today. Thank you. Christoph, um, for the presentation. I welcome the publication of the European Commission's Vision for Agriculture and Food. I welcome division's reassertion of the treaty provisions on agricultural production, food security, farm and rural areas viability, which underlines the need to maintain a common EU policy. I also welcome that the vision acknowledges the importance of the family farm model, and the need to support its long term viability. There are a number of references within division which will require further clarification. For example, what is envisaged in terms of increasingly targeted direct payments and how fisheries can fit into the vision. And while we cannot pre-empt the outcome of the EU budget MFF negotiations, I believe the division provides a strong argument for a robust and fully funded cap in the next EU budget. More than ever before, I think that we in this room need to work together as colleagues to amplify the critical importance of the agri food sector to the future security and stability of the EU as a whole. Division gives us a strong platform for that intensified cooperation in the period ahead. Finally, I want to echo the comments made by Spain, Portugal, France and others. Simplification for the Cap needs to be progressed through the Special Committee of Agriculture, so that the specifics of agricultural policy are properly addressed. Thank you.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thanks very much. Chair and Ireland shares the concerns expressed by France and other Member States and by our transmission services operators around the timeline envisaged under the F-gas regulation. We, of course, accept the need to eliminate our reliance on greenhouse gases and we believe that the deadline of 1st January 2028 is now, however, too ambitious for manufacturers to scale up production of alternative technologies. The supply chain constraints arising rising from this limited availability of alternative technologies could seriously impact our ability to achieve our decarbonisation targets, and the inclusion of electrical switch gears in the Ispr working plan would send an important and essential message to industry that we still need to address this problem, but in a realistic way. So Ireland supports the addition to the working plan and we ask the commission to look at this matter. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, chairman. Ireland welcomes the publication of EU Inc. The proposal and sees huge potential for a streamlined process to reduce complexity and business operating right across the EU.
We're very mindful on the call of the European Council for co legislators to reach an agreement on the proposal by the end of the year. This is an ambitious time frame, but is achievable if we are prepared to move forward in a timely and decisive manner.
Ireland is keen to play a constructive role and look forward to building and working on ongoing issues with the Cypriot Cypriot presidency that you have achieved. Thank you.”
Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
- “Thank you very much, chair. Ireland is happy to support this Non-paper. Promoting initiatives at European level should focus on a consistent and integrated approach, avoiding sector specific measures that result in fragmented and unclear EU legislation. At the same time, we believe further reflection is warranted on the appropriate choice of vehicle for all of this to achieve meaningful consolidation and harmonization across permitting regimes. Fundamentally, we believe that the streamlining of permitting rules has to go hand in hand with simplification and streamlining of related environmental rules to improve clarity within EU environmental instruments and the interface between various environmental assessments and permitting obligations. We are of the view that targeted and refined amendments to existing provisions in the Environmental Protection Directives would greatly accelerate the and support the acceleration acceleration of permit granting procedures, while at the same time ensuring high standards of environmental protection. We believe that we will not be able to meaningfully simplify and accelerate permitting processes unless we adopt a holistic and an all encompassing approach. Thank you.”
EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
- “Thank you, Maria, and thank you, Christophe, for the overview, and welcome to new colleagues. The fertilizer fertilizer is a large component of input costs of production on Irish farms as it is for all of European agriculture. The availability and affordability of fertilizer, has a direct link to production capacity, food security, and competitiveness.
Ireland fully supports the ambition of the plan to reduce the EU's dependency on fertilizer imports, increase EU domestic fertilizer production, and promote the use of alternatives to chemical fertilizer. My officials are carefully considering the measures along with myself and proposing the plan, and we look forward to engaging further on this topic.
In response to the presidency's first question, the measures recommended in the 2022 communication on ensuring availability and affordability of fertilizers certainly remains valid. In the short to medium term, as geopolitical uncertainty in The Middle East continues, pressure on fertilizer prices and possible challenges on availability may appear as the year progresses.
The current geopolitical situation highlights the importance of EU fertilizer production. In the longer term, the focus should be on improving nutrient juice efficiency to optimize the recovery of organic manures at farm level, thus reducing the dependency on chemical fertilizers. Future CAP strategic plans should continue to support farmers to adjust their farming practices to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and to improve use of organic fertilizer.
In response to the presidency's second question, Ireland recognized the importance of strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of the EU farming sector in the context of ongoing pressures on fertilizer availability and affordability. From a cap perspective, it will be important that the future framework continues to support investments in nutrient efficiency, precision farming, innovation, and advisory services that can help reduce dependency on imported, inputs over time.
Ireland also considers that member states should retain sufficient flexibility within the CAP framework to design interventions that reflect different farming systems, existing nutrient management practices, and national circumstances. More broadly, maintaining the strong and adequately funded cap will remain essential to supporting viable food production, strategic resilience, and the transition towards more sustainable nutrient management across European Union. Thank you.”
Use of fertilisers
- “I think there is still room for further simplification for farmers, which Ireland has raised at the working group, and for example, allowing member states the option to make advance payments at higher rates without the need to apply for a derogation work to update the quality assurance of the area monitoring system needs to be done quickly in order to apply this year. In addition, further administrative simplification is required to simplify the performance of reporting process, and member states must also have the flexibility to adjust their plans and targets. Given the changed geopolitical situation. As we finalise the rural development programmes this year, we must have a smooth transition of commitments into the sea. The CSP and I agree with the commissioner's point that this package should be progressed quickly so farmers and administrators can benefit from the changes as soon as possible. Finally, ensuring stability and certainty for the sector must be a key focus in our consideration for the next post 2027, and this is best achieved by evolving the current cap, including the latest changes proposed in this simplification process. Thank you.”
Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
- “Yes, thank you. And Ireland welcomes and supports the Council recommendation on the next ERA policy agenda. I understand the points made just now by my German colleague also about the importance of open science and academic freedom. And I think that researcher mobility is such an important principle and that's why they Choose Europe initiative is such an important initiative. Also, it is critical to achieve a fully functioning European research area so that we can maximise the impact of research and innovation on improving our competitiveness, prosperity and resilience across the EU. Accelerating the implementation of our priorities is also essential to underpin Europe's attractiveness to that global talent that we spoke about. Ireland believes that greater alignment between era policy and the framework programmes is crucial for the effective implementation of that policy agenda and our longer term priorities. Significant progress has been made to date, but continued and redoubled efforts are required at both the national and EU levels to deliver on our priorities. We must now act quickly to implement the ERA policy agenda. This is crucial to ensure that Europe has the right building blocks in place to reap the benefits of our research and innovation investment, and to optimise its contribution across competing political priorities. Thank you.”
EU-level coordination of research agendas
- “Thank you. Ellen. Um, I raised this issue earlier [00:12:30] when we were discussing our long time, our 2040 climate ambitions. And some people could say, well, what's the connection? But as the commissioner said, they're inextricably connected. We will need to protect nature and restore climate at the same time. And one complements the other. And if we don't do the nature bit, we won't be able to do the climate bit and we won't be able to protect our people from the climate change. We know that is already coming, and I would like to agree with the commissioner. I think this is a fundamental decision now for the European [00:13:00] institutional structures, because for some ten years, as I understand, after we agreed the Lisbon treaty, we didn't have this process where you would go through a trilogue negotiations with the Parliament, and then after it you would introduce a new a new layer, a new level, a new process where we say, well, we've changed our mind in the council, we're going to look at it again. And if we are to accept that, and that only became a pattern in recent months, particularly around some of the Green New Deal. But this is the most important example [00:13:30] because this is really significant. And if we're to say here as a council, we've changed our mind, we enter into negotiations. We agreed with the Parliament and the commission, but now we think differently. How would any future trilogue negotiations have any real confidence? How could any parliamentarian say or compromise here, I'll take a risk. I'll expose myself because I'll get a deal and then we'll have a deal done. If we don't agree to what we've already negotiated, we undermine the entire European legislative process. And that [00:14:00] is what is at stake here in my mind, as well as the need for protection of nature and addressing climate change. And I think for those in our country, this is very sensitive. Agriculture accounts for most of our emissions. But if you really look at this, this is the way we can actually create income for our farmers, particularly smaller farmers, particularly more marginal farmers. We can start paying them for the protection of the restoration of nature. And that's the opportunity we would be throwing away. We'd [00:14:30] basically be abandoning that possibility. I remember the words I was lucky to meet him and Noam Hermann Scheer, that great German parliamentarian, SPD parliamentarian. What was his book about solar economy back 25, 30 years ago, where he looking forward, he saw farmers as the front line in restoring nature and tackling climate because of their knowledge and expertise in managing land and managing water as well as food production. So if we abandon nature restoration, in my mind we are abandoning [00:15:00] the farmers of our in our continent. And that would be the real crying shame. And I'd have to say, Ireland. We're in a difficult position. You're in a difficult position because it's clear that we may not have agreement here today. So we can't agree here today. But that is not, as you say, the end of the matter.
We still have a number of other council meetings where this could be approved. It doesn't need, in my mind, to be extensively debated, because we've done that for the last year and a half or five years as, as Commissioner Sinkovic has said. So we have to look at further other councils, be it foreign [00:15:30] affairs or whichever ones. But to allow this go now means we're going into a European elections where we say the European system is not working, we do not protect nature, we do not take climate seriously. That would be an absolute shame. And I know there are voices of concern. I read comments, I think, from your own Prime Minister last May when he said maybe in relation to the nature restoration law, perhaps it was time to hit the pause button, he said. It was quoted in Politico let us not lose this momentum by [00:16:00] overburdening ourselves with challenges that are not as life threatening as climate change. The destruction of nature is life threatening. The destruction of nature is inextricably linked to a climate change. This is not the time to hit the pause button. Doing so I'd hate to see what leave a mark on the Belgian presidency that would be known as one which. Left down or gave up on nature. Gave up on the protection of nature. How could that could be an outcome that we would seek going into the next European elections? It would [00:16:30] be a disgrace. We have to avoid that at all costs.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “Czeslaw, thanks to you and your team for facilitating the open and constructive discussions on division through the Special Committee of Agriculture, which again proves the value of the SCA as a body of experts on agricultural policy. I thank you for the information regarding the conference in Riga. I understand that external convergence remains a very important issue for a number of Member States. Division provides us with a strategic framework to plan for the sustainable development of the European agri food sector, and a positive future for our farmers. Division provides a pathway to realise the potential of the sector that can only be achieved if properly resourced. I welcome division's reassertion of the treaty provisions on agricultural production, food security, farm and rural areas viability which all underlines the need to maintain a common EU policy. I look forward to engaging further on the forthcoming strategies on generational renewal and bioeconomy. The livestock Workstream is also an area of particular interest for Ireland. I particularly welcome the vision, acknowledging the importance of the family farm model and the need to support its long term viability. The vision of the next cap is of fundamental importance to delivering on that objective. I look forward to working with you, Christophe, and with all colleagues around the table on this most important file. My priorities are for a cap that is more straightforward for farmers, more flexible and responsive, with an appropriate balance between all elements of sustainability and, above all, a cap that has a dedicated and sufficient budget. From what I've heard from colleagues here this morning, I know most of you share these priorities. The vision gives us a strong platform for intensified cooperation in the period ahead. More than ever, it is essential that we work together to support the agri food sector and to underline its critical importance to the future strategic autonomy and stability of the EU as a whole. Thank you.”
Agricultural funding
- “I thank you David and thank you Jacob, and you have Ireland's full support. Simplifying the existing regulatory regime and making it more innovation friendly is necessary for a more resilient and competitive Europe. Europe needs an attractive regulatory environment to commercialise research and innovations in biotechnology, possess strong technical expertise while minimising the administrative burden. We must ensure that farmers have access to effective biological plant protection products while achieving a more sustainable use of chemical pesticides. Innovative ideas should be brought into a regulatory framework. New genomic techniques have potential to address many of our current challenges, including food security, climate change, and biodiversity pressures while delivering benefits to farmers, consumers in the environment. A coherent approach is needed between guaranteeing food security, facilitating simplification and innovation, and ensuring a very high level of protection for human animal and plant health, innovation and technology in the agricultural sector. A sector can help find that balance. Thank you, Debbie.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Thank you. Chair. The impact of climate change is all too apparent for our farming communities who are suffering from serious weather events, including floods, droughts and wildfires. Ireland looks forward to working closely with the Commission and other member states on [00:18:00] the detail of this communication and impact assessment. The green transition should continue to be economically feasible, cost manageable and leave no one behind, and the unique role of agriculture and land use sectors should be specifically acknowledged at the outset of consideration of the EU 2040 climate targets. Thank you.”
Climate efforts
- “Since the beginning of this year, Ardent has always made clear that our goal is to protect public health from the negative effects of poor air quality. We firmly support the objectives of Euro seven and the Commission's proposal to address those critical issues. We have welcomed the extension of the scope of the euro [00:20:00] emission standards to include battery durability and non exhaust emissions, which reflect the changes we are seeing in vehicle fleets over the coming years. As we move towards zero emission alternatives, we all know that vehicles sold today and indeed up to 2035 will remain in circulation, will affect our environment, our air quality and our health for many years afterwards. Harmful air pollutants from tyres and brake wear will remain with us even after [00:20:30] we transition away from fossil fuels. And their contribution to particulate matter and microplastics in our soils and in our groundwater may also pose risks to public health, ecological health and biodiversity. The discussions undertaken to date on Euro seven have revealed that varying priorities exist amongst Member States of our Union. It is disappointing to see that the proposed new standards will not achieve the emission reductions possible using the best available technologies and may [00:21:00] ultimately need to the European market falling behind those in China, in Canada and in the US, where the same manufacturers are producing vehicles to higher emission standards.
[00:21:12] It is also difficult to justify the delayed timeframes for implementation of the new standards as the emission limits and test conditions are minimally changed are unchanged from what is currently in place under Euro six. The texts we now have to consider more closely resembles a [00:21:30] variant of Euro six than a new Euro seven. However, we will not oppose the progression of Euro seven, but the decrease of its ambition, especially in relation to the technology solutions that are available to us, means that we feel it cannot meaningfully contribute towards the original objectives and we cannot lend our support. When we think of emissions reductions, we often think in terms of future benefits. The outcome of this file not only affects the health of our citizens in the future, but right here and [00:22:00] right now as the file progresses through the legislative process and is discussed with our colleagues in Parliament. I strongly urge all to recall the shared ambition of our Union to address road transport emissions in their totality. Madam President, we will be lodging a statement alongside this this speech today.”
Road transport environmental policy
- “Thank you. Thank you. Chair Christina and colleagues. When we last met in Copenhagen, the proposals for the next Framework programme were just published. And before I turn to the topic of today's debate, I want to share some brief observations on those. We all share the broad recognition of the significant contribution that research and innovation makes to wider national and European policy priorities, and we need to ensure that the factors that made the Framework programme such a success. Excellence and transnational collaboration are carried through into the new programmes. We need to make sure the collaborative research pillar remains attractive to the widest possible range of actors, and we need to carefully consider the interplay between the EKF and the framework programme, how that would be managed in practice both in design and implementation. We must prioritise excellence and protect collaborative cause to maximise the impact of our research and innovation investment. We also recognise the need for simplification and flexibility, but it should not come at the expense of Member States input. It is important that Member States influence on the substance of the programme is not diluted, and that member States must have a central role in the design and implementation of that programme. Ensuring the priorities of Member States and the Commission are reflected in the work programmes is key to enhancing greater alignment at both European and national levels.”
EU research funding
- “Ireland can understand and support the request from Slovakia for a solution which averts the loss of funds to farmers. A broader point is made by Romania is that the Rural Development Programme will end at the end of 2025, and many member states are then likely to require some flexibility in order to fully implement the Rural Development Programme measures and exhaust their allocations. Thank you.”
Agricultural funding
- “I [00:48:30] thank you, Louise, for all the work conducted by your presidency and your efforts to find a compromise text on this proposal. Ireland can support the changes made by your presidency, including this room document, which we understand will address the concerns of certain Mediterranean island member states. In my previous remarks, I highlighted the concerns Ireland had on the labelling of category two meat plants as well as GMOs and similar to other member states, raised the issue of the potential burden associated with co-existence. Therefore, I welcome the change to the text that would allow Member States to restrict or prohibit the cultivation of category two neat plants, similar to the opt out provisions of union legislation on GMOs. Ireland supports the transparency and control provisions in the proposal, including the labelling requirements of category one and two seeds, in order to give information to growers, particularly growers in the organic sector where NTS are prohibited. [00:49:30] I also wish to reaffirm the need to adopt innovation and technology in the agricultural sector. Plants obtained by NTS have the potential to address current challenges in the agri food system, such as food security, climate change and biodiversity reduction, and can deliver benefits to farmers, consumers and the environment. Thank you Luis.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Our citizens and communities must be at the heart of the MF, and this must be reflected through the traditional policies of the Cap and the CFP. These policies are also an investment in our continent's food security into the future. The visibilities and specificities of both must be reflected adequately.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thank you Ireland. [00:23:00] Thanks, Italy for highlighting the challenges that farmers face and agrees with many of the points raised. European farmers face ongoing challenges to provide food while also ensuring the sustainable management of the environment. Ireland agrees that in these uncertain times, maintaining sufficient production for the food security of the Union is vital. Recent conflicts have increased costs and limited availability of inputs, and farmers need the support of a strong common agriculture policy to ensure that production can continue. [00:23:30] We must address all three aspects of sustainability economic, environmental and social. Continued adequate funding of the Cap is essential, but the Cap cannot do everything. Coherent, evidence based policy making can support farmers as they navigate these challenges. In Ireland, farmers have demonstrated that when support is available, they are more than willing to take up the challenges that protect our natural resources, reduce greenhouse gases emissions, and enhance our biodiversity and habitats. Thank you. [00:24:00]”
Agricultural funding
- “Firstly, I'm pleased to inform my colleagues that the Irish Parliament approved participation in this instrument earlier this week. In answer to question one, Ireland supports the proposal in the recast directive. Extending periods can be necessary for victims to be able to seek justice that they deserve. This proposal recognises that by the nature of sexual abuse and in particular child sexual abuse, the victim is often unable to speak about the abuse, let alone bring a legal action in respect of it for many years. Child victims should be permitted at the time to reach the sufficient maturity and awareness to report these crimes. There is evidence that a relatively long limitation period is needed to allow for this. The serious scarring effects of sexual abuse can leave victims with both short term and long term psychological consequences, such as PTSD and depression. We agree with the position of the presidency that this poses problems for victims in seeking justice, both in terms of their willingness to come forward and report the crime and the time it may take for them to do so. We should not support a situation where victims are denied from seeking justice due to overly restrictive criminal limitation periods. Regarding the second question posed by the presidency, we consider that an AI generated sexual child sexual abuse material should be treated as part of the offence pertaining to child sexual abuse material. In our view, it should be treated identically to other child sexual abuse material under law. It is very difficult, sometimes verging on the impossible, to tell, whether child sexual abuse material is real or AI generated AI child sexual abuse material is already presenting a serious problem for law enforcement, because of the need to discern whether or not the children depicted therein are real victims in need of rescuing.
From a practical perspective, making the distinction between AI and real in terms of sanction will require law enforcement to analyze whether child sexual abuse material is real or not in every case. This would be heavily resource intensive. A lesser sanction for AI csam would encourage its creation, which will increase the difficulties for law enforcement. It will also lead to no doubt to perpetrators claiming that they taught anti child sexual abuse material, and the possession was AI generated. There are a number of other reasons for prints of principle. While AI child sexual abuse materials should be treated the same as normal child sexual abuse material in order to create child sexual abuse material. I too need to be fed on existing child sexual abuse material, which creates demand for real child sex abuse material and encourages the illegal possession and transmission of same. It also, as the presidency paper states, means that victims of child sexual abuse are revictimized. This is obviously the case where a child sexual abuse material is based on real abuse of the victim, but it is the case that the circulation of any child sexual abuse revictimize children who have suffered abuse in general, and I think most importantly, studies have shown that the offenders who took who look at child sexual abuse material are more likely to move to actual abusing children like Sweden and others. Ireland supports the inclusion in directive of provisions setting out the importance of consent in the context of offence of rape. Thank you.”
- “Thank you. Chair. The European health data space is vital to the health of European citizens, and Ireland looks forward to agreement on this file. However, we have serious concerns about proposals to include data localisation requirements in respect of primary and secondary use of data. On a strategic level, we believe that imposing a data localisation requirement without an exception for GDPR would undermine GDPR as a standard setter, as well as the EU's own adequacy decisions. [00:35:00] Ireland also believes that it goes against the EU's international obligations. Ireland is particularly concerned that data localisation requirements would disrupt cooperation in the field of health between Ireland and Northern Ireland. This could have negative consequences for the health of citizens on both sides of the border in Ireland, and disrupt important health research projects. We hope that a solution can be found that respects union law and protects the health of EU citizens in both parts of Ireland. Thank you.”
Processing of health data
- “Thank you for [00:11:30] this important debate. Firstly, I would like to reference measures that Ireland has taken to enhance women's representation in political decision making. One impactful legislative measure we introduced in 2012 was to link the provision of state funding to our political parties to the achievement of a specified gender balance of 40% in the selection of candidates for parliamentary elections. In another initiative, the Electoral Commission will conduct research to inform its approach to encouraging the electoral, electoral participation of unreached groups and increased [00:12:00] representation of women, people with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The Irish Women's Parliamentary Caucus, established in 2017, is a forum for Irish women parliamentarians from all political parties to discuss and campaign on issues which predominantly affect women. The caucus exercises a strong influence on the working environment in politics, and the priority being given to gender impact. This initiative extends to the grassroots level, with support also being provided to establish women's caucuses at a local government [00:12:30] level. The Minister for equality has engaged with the caucus on introducing Access to Maternity Leave for members of the Doyle or Parliament, and work is now underway as part of the review of our equality legislation to introduce this leave. We are also making progress to foster gender equality rules in leadership more generally, or pay transparency legislation, which requires companies to report on their gender pay gaps across a range of metrics, was introduced in 2022. Data shows that the pay gap is continuing to narrow each year. For example, in 2022 [00:13:00] it was 9.6%, down from 14.4 in 2017. Irish businesses have also made extraordinary progress in gender balance from a low base, with female representation on the boards of listed companies rising by 22 percentage points in the last five years to reach 40% in 2024. However, there is still much work to do in this area, in particular to accelerate the pace of change in non-listed companies and within particular industries. To address this, a new strategy sets out an ambitious programme for the next five years and [00:13:30] reaffirms the government's commitment to building an equitable, diverse and inclusive economy. In terms of your second question about initiatives, what initiatives can be taken at the EU level? We would welcome, like others, the sharing of best practice in this area. In particular, we would welcome a focus on how we can best combat abuse and violence disproportionately directed at women in politics and public life simply because they are women. This is a subject which would benefit from collective deliberation and action. Thank you.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- “I thank you David, and thank you, Kim for your paper. I agree it's important that consumers have clarity and transparency regarding labeling, especially in relation to products coming from outside the European Union. However, I am concerned that origin labeling for products originating within the [00:16:00] EU could negatively impact the smooth functioning of the single market. Sustainability is a complex issue to consider on a label, and origin is not always the key factor for any proposal such as this. I would expect and welcome an impact assessment from the Commission to develop a better understanding. I understand that the Commission intends to revise the food information for Consumers regulation, and it would be appropriate to consider any labeling proposals in a coordinated manner. Thank you. David. [00:16:30]”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “Thank you, Christina, and happy birthday. Or as we say, I'll bring cake the next time. Uh, uh, we welcome the amending Council regulation to support the creation of AI Gigafactories and also the inclusion of quantum technologies. Last month in Ireland, I announced a major new investment programme across research infrastructure which will enhance our national HPC and quantum capabilities. So we're delighted to be working with HPC and working in collaboration across Europe also. So I look forward to advancing our shared ambitions together through the HPC programme, and delighted to see the direction of travel. Thank you.”
EU research funding
- “Thank you. Ireland supports the council conclusions on the ex post evaluation of Horizon 2020. Ireland welcomes their high level strategic focus. We recommend the work done by the presidency to ensure that they did not stray into negotiation of FP 10. These conclusions provide important signals on the priorities for member states in the next framework programme and in other union programmes. In particular, we need to learn from our experience and ensure we secure an adequate and ring-fenced budget. It is essential to maintain Europe's track record for producing excellent science while enhancing our competitive advantage in developing cutting edge goods, services, technologies, and creative solutions. We need to ensure the appropriate balance between the next framework programmes contribution to supporting EU industrial policy while maintaining its focus on delivering agreed research and innovation priorities. Ireland has favoured retaining the civilian focus of the framework programmes. We recognise the changed global context and the increasing focus on security and defence. The national consultation on FP 10 will help inform Ireland's position on this issue. Finally, the timely completion of the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe will be very important to ensure a robust evidence base to inform the design of FP 10. Thank you.”
EU research funding
- “Thirdly, with reference to Spain's AOB item, we now need to accelerate these in-depth discussions between Member States and the Commission on how the governance structures will work in practice. There are also a number of other important issues that we need to address. These include. Openness to a collaboration with the rest of the world while managing research, security and dual use considerations. Prioritizing excellence to maximize the impact of our research and innovation investment. Making sure that we recognize the importance of research and innovation collaboration beyond the ECF, especially for societal benefits. Enhancing transdisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaboration using Horizon Europe instruments such as the EIC solely as a tool to enable, rather than directly fund defense applications. Ensuring simplification measures. Meaningfully reduce bureaucracy and boost participation, particularly for SMEs. Earlier this month, European leaders reaffirmed the critical role of research and innovation in boosting competitiveness, and all of us around this table have collective responsibility for optimizing that contribution of research and innovation to our wider political strategic priorities. We now need to work closely and efficiently together to come up with and implement a framework programme that can deliver on that potential. And I want to thank again my colleague as chair, and we fully support the Cyprus presidency in all of your efforts.”
Research priorities within the EU
- “And good morning, colleagues. We welcome in Ireland also the opportunity to discuss the interim evaluation of Horizon Europe and what lessons we can take for the remainder of the programme and for its successor. The evaluation reaffirms the value of the Framework Programme to the EU across all three pillars excellence, transnational collaboration and innovation. The ERC and the EIC are very important instruments, but the main source of added value is the transnational collaboration piece. The pursuit of European added value should inform the design and implementation of the next MFF MBF and constituent programs. It is very welcome news that the next framework programme will be self-standing. We welcome this. It is also imperative that it will have a ring fenced budget that is critically important, as well as enhancing the URC and the AIC in the next MFF. Transnational research and innovation collaboration must continue to be prioritised and to be funded. The interim evaluation highlights the importance of pillar two for SMEs. Over two thirds of EU funding for SMEs was under pillar two. In addition, about half of Horizon Europe Newcomers participants are newcomers, many of which are also SMEs, and this is very encouraging given the urgent need which we understand and share to improve Europe's innovation performance and to address the innovation gap against global competitors. I share the my German colleague's vision that Europe should be a continent for research number one. As we know. Also, looking at the SMEs, they tend to be more agile than larger companies. This flexibility allows to experiment with innovative solutions and implement new ideas more quickly.”
EU research funding
- “Thank you chair, and our thanks to Italy for highlighting this issue. Ireland supports the AOB and shares the concerns in the context of equal access to the single market. Smooth functioning of the European livestock market and international trade and proportionality to the actual benefits for animal welfare. Ireland is strongly committed to improving animal welfare standards during transport, and we support the revision of the EU regulation for this sector. We demand the highest standards of animal welfare at every stage of the animal's life, including during transport, with measures often going beyond the current legislative requirements. We are of the view that the new regulation should be based on strong technical and scientific knowledge, as well as drawing on the experiences and good practices of Member States in implementing and enforcing the current regulation. We believe this revision should be based on scientific evidence and should draw upon the practical experience of Member States. We are anxious to ensure that the new rules ensure equal access to the single market for all Member States, taking account of their geography. Thank you. Chair”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
- “Thank you chair, and our thanks to Slovenia for this paper. Ireland recognises the need to update and improve the existing animal welfare regulations, and we agree that the next Commission should continue to work on animal welfare. There is a need for new sector specific legislation for important animal categories such as dairy cows, pigs and poultry in order to ensure that their welfare is protected. These new legislative proposals should be based on [00:16:30] scientific research and consider both successful past strategies and wider concerns. We must also address the financial implications for farmers when considering any new legislation, as significant supports will be required to facilitate the transition. Thank you. Chair.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers