TD Michael Lowry has urged the Government to ensure that Ireland makes full use of its upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, describing the six month term as a significant political moment that should not be wasted.
Raising the issue in the Dáil, Michael Lowry said the presidency “poses a significant opportunity for our country and a chance to help steer Europe’s agenda”.
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Deputy Lowry stressed that the Government must set clear priorities and use the presidency to influence decisions that will have far reaching consequences.
During the exchange he focused in particular on the shifting security situation in Europe. TD Michael Lowry said that Russia’s continuing assault on Ukraine has “fundamentally reshaped Europe’s security landscape”.
He told the Taoiseach that Ireland must put in place measures to protect strategic infrastructure on land and in the waters around the country, warning that the changing geopolitical climate has exposed vulnerabilities that can no longer be ignored.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin acknowledged the points raised and said the concerns outlined by deputy Lowry were real and pressing. He noted that the Government is taking account of these challenges as preparations intensify for Ireland’s EU presidency next year.
The debate also touched on the controversy surrounding the proposed Strategic Gas Reserve in the Shannon Estuary. Environmental groups have criticised the plan, saying it risks deepening Ireland’s dependence on fossil fuels at a time when emissions must fall.
Despite this, the Taoiseach insisted that the project remains crucial for safeguarding Ireland’s energy security and ensuring the country can withstand future supply shocks.
Michael Lowry’s comments comes amid a wider government effort to bolster national security. Ireland has announced a record increase in defence spending, with the 2026 defence budget rising to approximately €1.49 billion, an 11% increase on the previous year.
In addition, a €1.7 billion Defence Sectoral National Development Plan for 2026–2030 was launched, providing for major upgrades across land, air, maritime, and cyber capabilities, as well as modernisation of radar, aircraft, naval systems, vehicles, drones, and infrastructure.
These measures are part of a broader response to the evolving security threats posed by geopolitical tensions in Europe.
Deputy Lowry’s statement underlines his view that Ireland’s presidency should be used to confront major European and domestic challenges head on.
He maintains that the country cannot afford to let such a rare opportunity pass without meaningful engagement and clear direction.
