Minister Byrne promotes competitiveness agenda ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency

Minister Byrne promotes competitiveness agenda ahead of Ireland's EU Presidency

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 28 March 2026
• Last updated on: 28 March 2026

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, today (Saturday, 28 March) delivered a keynote address at the 37th edition of the European House Ambrosetti Economy and Finance meeting.

Minister Byrne also met with his Italian counterpart, Minister for European Affairs, Cohesion Policies and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Tommaso Foti.

Minister Byrne commented: "We must tackle challenges to European competitiveness head on, by deepening, and ultimately transforming, the Single Market. It should also be remembered that our collective prosperity is underpinned by respect for common values. They matter in good times, but they matter even more, in moments of instability and uncertainty."

Minister Byrne continued: "Ireland is a strong supporter of the EU simplification agenda. We want to see unnecessary red tape cut, while maintaining high ambition, in terms of environmental protection, human health, and other standards. Ultimately, it comes down to better regulation, not deregulation. At the same time, by advancing the Savings and Investment Union, we will also unlock access to finance for new investments and give more choice to consumers."

Minister Byrne's address was followed by a question-and-answer session moderated by former Prime Minister of Italy, Enrico Letta.

During his meeting with Minister Foti, the Ministers discussed Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency, including negotiations on the EU's Multiannual Financial Framework, EU Enlargement, security and defence, and advancing the competitiveness agenda.

ENDS

Press Office

28 March 2026