Minister Byrne to address European Parliament Conference of Committee Chairs

Minister Byrne to address European Parliament Conference of Committee Chairs

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 19 May 2026
• Last updated on: 19 May 2026

The Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, is in Strasbourg today (19 May) to appear before the European Parliament's Conference of Committee Chairs.

The Minister will use the opportunity to provide a broad overview of Ireland's EU Presidency priorities for its term, commencing on 1 July, and will hold an exchange of views with the Chairs of all European Parliament Committees.

Emphasising the importance of working closely with the European Parliament during Ireland's EU Presidency, Minister Byrne stated: "During the Irish EU Presidency, we will cooperate closely with the European Parliament. In advance of taking on the EU Presidency, Irish government ministers have already been engaging closely with members of the European Parliament. It is imperative that we work together constructively, as co-legislators, to advance the EU agenda and to deliver for Europe and our citizens."

Minister Byrne continued: "In managing the agenda and the ongoing work across all areas, Ireland's EU Presidency will focus its efforts on enhancing the competitiveness of our economy, safeguarding the values of our Union at home and abroad, and ensuring the security of our citizens. I look forward to hearing the views of Chairs on the Parliament's priorities and expectations, over the coming period of the Irish EU Presidency."

Notes:

Since 2009, the European Parliament has acquired significant additional co-decision powers, extending to almost all areas of EU legislation.

The Conference of Committee Chairs (CCC) is the political body, which coordinates the work of European Parliament Committees and ensures smooth cooperation between them. It consists of the Chairs of all standing and special Committees.

It is chaired by German MEP from the S&D group, Bernd Lange.

As Chair of the Committee on Development, Irish MEP Barry Andrews (Renew) is a member of the CCC.

Incoming Presidencies are invited to appear before the CCC to present their priorities and to hold an exchange of views with Committee Chairs.