Oireachtas Leaders Welcome European Parliament President to Leinster House Ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency

The Ceann Comhairle, Verona Murphy TD, and Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, Senator Mark Daly, today welcomed President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, and a delegation from the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents to Leinster House.

The high-level visit comes just weeks before Ireland assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, placing the country at the centre of European decision-making for the next six months.

The Conference of Presidents is the European Parliament’s principal governing body, bringing together President Metsola and the leaders of the Parliament’s political groups. The body is responsible for organising parliamentary business, setting agendas and coordinating the institution’s political direction.

The delegation participated in a series of bilateral meetings and networking events before joining members of the Oireachtas for discussions in the Seanad Chamber.

Speaking during the visit, Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy said Ireland was honoured to host President Metsola and the delegation at such a significant time for the country.

“With Ireland on the cusp of taking over the European Union Presidency next month, we welcome President Metsola and the EU Parliament delegation to Leinster House. This is the culmination of months of preparation and hard work. We look forward to strengthening our commitment to solidarity with our European partners throughout Ireland’s Presidency,” she said.

Senator Mark Daly said the meetings would help shape Ireland’s priorities during its term at the helm of the EU.

“Ireland continues to play a vital part in the European Union. We are proud to take on the important role of the Presidency in the next few weeks. This series of meetings with President Metsola and the delegation can set the foundations of Ireland’s priorities during our tenure as President,” he said.

Senator Daly also highlighted plans to host a number of interparliamentary conferences during Ireland’s Presidency, including an event focused on peacebuilding and lessons from the Good Friday Agreement.

The visit is being seen as an important opportunity to strengthen ties between Ireland and European institutions as the country prepares to take on one of the most influential roles within the European Union.