MEP calls for EU presidency meetings to be held in Cork

An Ireland South MEP has urged the government to bring key European Union (EU) presidency meetings to Cork when Ireland assumes the presidency of the council of the EU for six months, starting July 2026.

As part of this presidency, several key meetings, which will steer the EU’s legislative agenda and welcome thousands of dignitaries, diplomats, and global leaders, will be held in Dublin.

Ireland South MEP, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú is calling on Taoiseach Micheál Martin to implement an inclusive approach to these meetings by hosting a significant share of them in Cork and other cities and towns across the South.

Ms Ní Mhurchú has formally written to Mr Martin outlining the case for hosting a substantial number of EU presidency-related meetings in Cork, Limerick, Waterford, and other locations.

Essential

Ms Ní Mhurchú, said it is essential that the benefits of Ireland’s EU presidency be shared fairly across the country.

“Ireland’s EU Council presidency is an opportunity for the whole country, not only Dublin, to shine on the European stage,” said Ms Ní Mhurchú. “By hosting key meetings in Cork, we can spread economic activity, support local businesses, and showcase the talent, innovation, and hospitality that thrive in every part of Ireland.”

Ms Ní Mhurchú emphasised that hosting EU meetings outside Dublin brings clear advantages, including increased media attention, boosts to local tourism, and a greater sense of connection to Europe among rural and regional communities.

“This presidency should be an all-of-Ireland effort,” she said.