Minister Byrne continues community outreach on Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, visited Westmeath today as part of the Government’s outreach programme ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. 

Minister Byrne is conducting outreach across the country to raise awareness of Ireland’s upcoming Presidency and to hear the views of citizens on how to frame Ireland’s priorities for the six-month period. 

Speaking to fifth and sixth year students, Minister Byrne spoke of ongoing preparations for Ireland’s EU Presidency and the important role Ireland will play in driving forward the EU agenda, with the aim of engaging young people on matters related to the EU and its impact on their lives. 

The Minister also illustrated the diverse roles available to Irish people interested in working in EU institutions and underlined the Government’s support through the A Career for EU strategy.

ENDS

Press Office

26 September 2025