Minister Byrne at General Affairs Council ahead of European Council meeting

The Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, is in Luxembourg today (24 June) to represent Ireland at the General Affairs Council, in advance of this week’s European Council meeting (26 June).

In preparations for the European Council meeting, Minister Byrne will stress Ireland’s key positions on the situation in the Middle East and Gaza, on Ukraine and on security and defence, as well as on competitiveness and simplification.

Speaking on the Middle East ahead of the General Affairs Council, the Minister said: “Ireland calls on the EU to send a strong message about the unacceptable and catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. We reiterate our call for an immediate ceasefire and a permanent end to hostilities.”

Commenting on defence and security, Minister Byrne commented: “Ireland welcomes the White Paper for Defence Readiness. We recognise the immediate need for the EU to demonstrate a credible and unified approach and for Member States to take responsibility for their own defence, and to work together to address critical capability gaps. That work is already underway in Ireland as we act to close the capability gaps that we have identified.”

ENDS

Press Office

24 June 2025