164. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to provide an update on the approach of Government in MFF discussions up to 1 July 2026 in relation to the repayment of Next Generation EU funds, own resources and the size of the budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53932/26]

Negotiations are ongoing at EU-level since the European Commission’s initial publication of proposals for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 in July and September of last year. These negotiations will continue through Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of this year, and the Irish Presidency will work intensively and ambitiously so that EU leaders can take the necessary decisions in 2026 on the MFF.

Before taking over this role as honest broker, the Government’s approach has been to engage constructively with all aspects of the negotiations with a view to securing a balanced outcome that supports the Union’s priorities, while ensuring sound financial management and contributing our fair share of the EU budget's own resources.

As Presidency of the Council of the European Union, we will continue to engage with all Member States and EU institutions, in our role as an honest broker, facilitating discussions and supporting progress towards agreement on the next MFF.  All elements of the MFF, including the repayment of Next Generation EU funds, own resources, and the size of the budget remain under negotiation and will require compromises from all Member States.