Kildare residents invited to have their say on priorities for Ireland's EU Presidency

Kildare South Fine Gael TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has said that people in Kildare can have their say on Ireland’s priorities for the Presidency of the Council of the European Union next year through a new survey.

Minister Heydon said the consultation process is an important milestone in preparing for one of the most significant responsibilities Ireland will undertake on the European stage.

"Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026 offers a unique opportunity to shape the European agenda at a time of major change and challenge”, he said.

“This public consultation will allow individuals, businesses, and community organisations across Kildare to have their say on the themes and priorities Ireland should advance during its six-month term.

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“This is another chance to demonstrate Ireland’s capability and influence on a European level, and to reaffirm our reputation as a constructive, solutions-focused member state.

“The consultation has now opened for submissions and will close on 12 December 2025.  You can make a submission by visiting: The Development of the Priorities and Policy Programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026

“The consultation process ensures that ideas from every corner of the country, including Kildare, can contribute to shaping how Ireland leads in Europe in 2026.”

Concluding, Minister Heydon said: “I’d encourage everyone in Kildare to fill out the survey and have their say on what Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.”