July - December 2026
A meeting of EU affairs committee chairpersons from national parliaments and the European Parliament to discuss current European priorities and preparations for the upcoming COSAC plenary meeting.
Europe is strongest when we work together and when we keep our citizens at the centre of our decisions.
Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union is an important moment, bringing opportunity with a clear responsibility to represent and deliver for the people who elect us as parliamentarians.
Watch the welcome message from Deputy Verona Murphy, the Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.
At a time of increasing global challenges, parliamentary cooperation has never been more important.
Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union provides an opportunity to bring parliamentarians from across Europe together to share perspectives, strengthen democratic engagement and address issues of common concern.
Watch the welcome message from Senator Mark Daly, Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann.
Two distinct but complementary roles working together to shape, oversee and strengthen EU decision-making
Leading negotiations and helping EU countries agree on laws and policies
Examining, debating and holding decision-makers to account
The Houses of the Oireachtas, Ireland’s Parliament, plays a key role during the Presidency in helping to make sure EU decisions are clear, fair and focused on people.
Why it matters
Helps make sure decisions in the EU are clear, accountable and reflect the views of citizens
Leadership role
Sets the agenda for interparliamentary engagement across the EU during the Presidency
Interparliamentary conferences
Hosts meetings in Ireland where parliamentarians from across Europe come together to talk about important EU issues
Interparliamentary engagement
Works with parliamentarians from other countries to share ideas and discuss key priorities
The Houses of the Oireachtas plays a key role in the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union by chairing its parliamentary dimension. Elected public representatives are the beating heart of Europe’s democracy and it is therefore fitting that Parliament hosts the interparliamentary conferences, setting the tone for constructive debate among participants.
Each interparliamentary conference will involve the invitation of members from European Union and other European countries to a meeting hosted by the Presidency’s parliament.
During the Presidency Ireland will be responsible for driving forward the European Council’s work on EU legislation and ensuring the continuity of the EU agenda and cooperation among member states.
The Irish Government leads the work of EU countries during the Presidency.
Chairing meetings
Leads meetings between EU countries
Setting priorities
Helps decide what issues to focus on
Negotiating agreements
Works with countries to find common agreement
Agreeing EU laws
Works with the European Parliament to agree laws
Representing the Council
Speaks on behalf of EU countries