44. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the priorities in the forthcoming negotiations on the EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034, in view of recent discussions at the EU General Affairs Council; the way in which Ireland intends to advance these during its upcoming EU Presidency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49860/26]

On 16 June, the General Affairs Council met in Luxembourg and held a policy debate on the 2028 - 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, represented Ireland at this meeting.

Following the revision of the MFF ‘Negotiating Box’ – the text which forms the basis of discussion and will eventually become Council Conclusions - Member States met in this format to reflect on its content, including the addition of figures for the first time since negotiations began last year.

Overarching, discussions highlighted where diverging views exist, and the remaining issues which have yet to be resolved, in particular on volume, financing and expenditure priorities. A number of Member States also expressed an appreciation that agreeing the MFF before the end of the year would be necessary to avoid delays in domestic implementation before 2028.

As Ireland takes forward this task during our Presidency, insights shared at the General Affairs Council, and the subsequent European Council, will form the basis of Ireland’s strategy and approach in negotiating this critical file. During our Presidency, Ireland will be committed to acting as an ‘honest broker’, and achieving workable compromises for all Member States in an effort to reach a timely agreement.

This will be central and key priority for Ireland during our Presidency. Delivering a revised negotiating box which is a pragmatic and fair compromise, that is acceptable to all Member States and can enable timely agreement on the 2028-2034 MFF will be in Ireland's interest overall - both in terms of our reputation and standing in the Union as well as ensuring that the future EU budget can provide for our citizens, communities and businesses.