The Irish Presidency will work on behalf of all Europeans

This brings direct benefits for citizens, including greater consumer protection, fundamental rights and legal safeguards in European markets.

At a time when disinformation, the erosion of democracy and technological change are giving rise to new risks, the EU can help to ensure the protection of its citizens. A particular priority will be the online safety of children, which is a cause for concern among European parents.

We will also prioritise enlargement. Having benefited from EU membership, Ireland demonstrates how membership of the Union is transformative in nature. It is right that countries which have completed the necessary reforms should be able to join the European family. Enlargement ensures stability and prosperity for us all.

The third pillar is that of security. Faced with growing geopolitical instability and wars on Europe’s doorstep, the EU is increasingly committed to protecting its citizens.

Support for Ukraine – political, economic, diplomatic and military – is a cross-cutting priority. The Ukrainian people have shown resilience and courage in the face of Russian aggression. We will continue to support them and to fight together to achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

Security, of course, has a broader scope. It encompasses energy security, which ensures energy supplies for households and businesses at more affordable prices; cyber security, such as the protection of personal data and banking systems; and strengthening our capacity to tackle hybrid threats. We will strive to better prepare Europe for crises. A more coordinated EU reduces vulnerability to shocks, whether they be energy-related, economic, technological or geopolitical.

One of the main tasks will be to take forward negotiations on the EU’s next long-term budget.

Although this is a daunting challenge, we aim to reach an agreement on the long-term budget by the end of this year. This will require compromises and difficult decisions, but we must invest in programmes and projects that benefit our citizens and prepare our Union for the future.

The EU budget provides funding that supports local communities by improving transport networks, enhancing digital connectivity and funding renewable energy projects. Decisions on the EU budget are not abstract; they have a real impact on the quality of life at a local level.

The guiding principle of the Irish Presidency, Ní neart go cur le chéile (“unity is strength”), captures the essence of its potential impact. In a fragmented world, the challenges facing citizens — rising costs, climate change, security threats — cannot be tackled by any single country.

By focusing on competitiveness, values and security, the Irish Presidency’s programme addresses the issues that matter most to everyone. Its success will depend on results, not just on ambitions.

Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland)