Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Tuesday outlined the priorities of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, telling the European Parliament that its programme would focus on competitiveness, values and security under the theme “strength with unity”.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed Martin to the chamber, saying the next six months would be a critical period for Europe and expressing confidence that the Parliament and the Irish Presidency would work together on key legislative files.
Focus on competitiveness, security and enlargement
Martin said the Presidency would seek to strengthen the EU’s competitiveness by removing barriers, reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens and promoting trade within the single market.
On external trade, he said the Presidency would work towards an EU-US trade and investment relationship that benefits both sides while also pursuing a close partnership with the UK. He added that the Presidency would continue efforts to deepen trade relations with partners including India, Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates.
He also said the Irish Presidency would work with the European Parliament to conclude negotiations on the European grids package as part of efforts to strengthen Europe’s energy security and develop sustainable, affordable and secure energy systems.
On EU enlargement, Martin said Ireland would aim to complete accession negotiations with Montenegro, make substantial progress with Moldova and Ukraine, and continue advancing the Western Balkans’ accession process in line with each country’s level of preparedness.
Addressing foreign policy, he said the Presidency would continue supporting EU efforts to promote stability in Lebanon, Syria and the Gulf region while reaffirming the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Referring to the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West Bank as “dire”, he said Europe must do more.
On security, Martin said the Irish Presidency would continue supporting Ukraine politically, financially, militarily and humanitarianly, while backing increased pressure on Russia through stronger sanctions. He also said the Presidency would promote closer cooperation to strengthen Europe’s resilience against hybrid threats and enhance maritime and cyber security.
Turning to the EU’s next long-term budget, Martin said he believed agreement in the Council could be reached by the end of 2026, adding that the Irish Presidency would present its negotiating approach in the autumn.
During the debate, MEPs broadly welcomed the Presidency’s emphasis on competitiveness, security and resilience. According to the European Parliament, speakers also highlighted the importance of strengthening the EU’s economy and strategic autonomy, advancing enlargement, and addressing issues including the next long-term budget, migration, climate policy, housing, support for Ukraine, the rule of law and online safety for children.
Photo: Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin addresses the European Parliament during the July 2026 plenary session, presenting the programme of activities and priorities of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. (EP)
![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://iwpost.com/european-parliament-hears-irish-presidencys-plans-for-the-next-six-months/&media=https://iwpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/15841-european-parliament-hears-irish-presidencys-plans-for-the-next-six-months.avif&description=Ireland's Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Tuesday outlined the priorities of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, telling the European Parliament that its programme would focus on competitiveness, values and security under the theme "strength with unity". European Parliament President Roberta Metsola welcomed Martin to the chamber, saying the next six months…){kind=link}