Statement following video conference of European Council on COVID-19

In their video conference today, the Taoiseach and EU Leaders discussed the various dimensions of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) crisis, including:

• managing external borders
• ensuring the supply of medicines, equipment and goods
• mitigating the economic shock and damage including for jobs and SMEs
• supporting research to find a vaccine
• cooperating to bring citizens home from other countries

They endorsed Commission proposals on non-essential travel and on managing borders. They agreed that in all matters they would do whatever it takes to protect citizens in the face of an unprecedented crisis, and that they would continue work together on this.

The Taoiseach emphasised the need for the Union to use all tools available to it to maximum effect to protect life and to minimise damage. He highlighted the need also to work together to bring citizens stranded abroad - in Spain and further afield - safely home.

Leaders agreed to meet again next week by video conference in place of their scheduled meeting in Brussels.

ENDS