Minister Byrne to attend EU General Affairs Council

The Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is in Luxembourg today to represent Ireland at the General Affairs Council.

In preparation for the European Council meeting on 23-24 October, Minister Byrne will highlight Ireland’s positions on issues including Gaza, Ukraine, and strengthening European competitiveness. The Council will discuss the EU’s multi-annual budget for 2028-34.

In advance of the Council meeting, Minister Byrne commented: “The European Competitiveness Fund is fundamental to transforming Europe. Our primary objective is to support an open, dynamic and competitive EU economy and a deeper, more integrated Single Market. Ireland wants a Common Agricultural Policy that is stand-alone, ring-fenced and well-funded, ensuring economic, social and environmental sustainability at its core”.

On the simplification agenda, Minister Byrne said: “Ireland supports a simplification agenda that cuts red tape and reduces the administrative burden on EU companies, including SMEs. On digital simplification package, Ireland wants to see an ambitious package that supports the EU’s strategic positioning as the location of choice for trustworthy digital innovation”.

In advance of the Council meeting, Minister Byrne will meet with the Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka, alongside EU counterparts.

Commenting on Ukraine, Minister Byrne said: “It is critical that we continue to support Ukraine in the face of Russia’s relentless campaign. Ukraine’s pathway to EU membership must be advanced and Ireland's solidarity with Ukraine remains unwavering.”

A livestream of the General Affairs Council can be found here.

ENDS

Press Office

21 October 2025