Strong public support for EU membership ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency

Strong public support for EU membership ahead of Ireland's EU Presidency

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 6 May 2026
• Last updated on: 6 May 2026

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, and Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, have welcomed the results of the European Movement Ireland (EMI) latest EU Poll survey, published today 6 May 2026. This year's results show that 82% of respondents support Ireland's EU membership.

The annual EMI EU Poll, conducted across the island of Ireland from 26-31 March 2026, surveyed a representative sample of 1,200 adults on their attitudes to the EU and the challenges facing the Union. The poll also found that 51% of respondents support further enlargement of the EU. The poll shows that Irish citizens remain among the most pro-EU populations in the Union.

This year's 82% finding is consistent with EMI's 2025 poll, both Minister McEntee and Minister Byrne welcomed the results, noting that they reflected a continued strong European identity of Irish citizens at a time of significant geopolitical uncertainty and global change.

Minister McEntee said: "These results are a welcome signal that Irish citizens remain committed to our place at the heart of Europe, and it is not something we should take for granted. An 82% support rate for EU membership is something we can all take pride in, and it is encouraging to see strong public support for EU enlargement; expanding the Union is a strategic priority for Ireland and for Europe as a whole, particularly at a time of significant geopolitical change."

"The fact that this survey spans the whole island of Ireland makes it particularly significant as it reflects a broad, shared recognition of the benefits and stability that EU membership brings. In a time of international uncertainty, that public confidence in European solidarity is reassuring and important.

At the same time the poll is a frank reflection of concerns that exist around the EU's ability to respond to the challenges that citizens face. It would be wrong to simply welcome the headline figure without acknowledging the more complex picture beneath it."

Minister Byrne commented: "Ireland has been a proud member of the European Union for over 50 years, and this poll shows that Irish support for EU membership remains one of the strongest, in the EU. Our EU Presidency is a moment for reflection, as well as action, and I look forward to working with our EU partners to ensure that the EU's direction of travel is shaped by the concerns of its citizens.

"Since last year, I have been visiting communities across Ireland, to raise awareness of Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency. I have deeply valued hearing the views of citizens on Ireland's EU Presidency and their thoughts on our membership of the EU. The EMI results remind us of the strong mandate we carry on behalf of Irish citizens when it comes to our EU membership."

ENDS

Press Office

6 May 2026

Notes to Editor:

The full survey results can be found on the European Movement website here: European Movement Ireland | Ireland and the EU Poll