On Tuesday, 23 June, European Parliament leaders will meet with Ireland’s President Catherine Connolly, the Taoiseach Micheál Martin and government ministers. They will also hold meetings at the Houses of the Oireachtas, including with the Ceann Comhairle and the Cathaoirleach, speakers of the two houses of parliament.

Discussions are expected to centre around the priorities of the forthcoming Irish presidency – including competitiveness and the One Europe, One Market roadmap, the next EU long-term budget, and broader issues relating to EU values and security.

On 1 July, Ireland will assume the presidency of the Council of the EU, taking on a central role in shaping the Union’s agenda. As customary, the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents – comprising President Roberta Metsola and the leaders of the political groups – travels to Ireland to prepare for the upcoming presidency.

“Ireland takes on the Council Presidency at a defining moment for Europe….