Minister Byrne speaks to Queen’s University Belfast on Irish EU Presidency

​Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, visited Queen’s University Belfast today (26 February) to speak on Ireland's approach to the upcoming EU Presidency of the EU Council, commencing in July 2026. 

During the visit, Minister Byrne spoke to students, academics, and the wider public, on Ireland’s ambitions for its EU Presidency, and the important role that Ireland will play in advancing the EU agenda.

The Minister said: “At a time of geopolitical instability and complexity, Ireland will take on a significant leadership role, in assuming the Presidency of the Council of the EU on 1 July. We will take the opportunity to shape the EU’s policy and legislative agenda, as we navigate the challenges that face us, and we will pursue a positive agenda of delivery, focused on three core pillars of values, competitiveness and security.”

“As we approach Ireland’s EU Presidency, I am very conscious of the strong interest in many EU issues, which affect Northern Ireland and the island as a whole, particularly in the context of the evolving relationship between the EU and the UK. My engagement at QUB today provided an important and welcome opportunity to hear the perspectives of a wide range of stakeholders in Northern Ireland, which I greatly valued.”

Following his address, Minister Byrne engaged with the audience on questions relating to the Irish EU Presidency, and wider foreign policy matters, during a session moderated by Dr Peter McLoughlin in Queen’s University, and welcomed by Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer.

Read Minister Byrne's full speech here.

ENDS

Press Office

26 February 2026