Ireland takes over EU Council presidency

Ireland has taken over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union for the next six months.

It replaces Cyprus and will chair work among EU governments from 1 July to 31 December 2026.

The opening ceremony is being held in Dublin, with European Council President Antonio Costa and Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin expected to attend.

The presidency gives Ireland a central role in steering EU talks, brokering agreements between member states and helping move legislation forward.

It is the eighth time Ireland has held the role. Dublin last held the presidency in 2013.