252. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the range of topics covered and the outcome of his discussions in Cork with Members of the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53917/26]

The visit of the European College of Commissioners to Cork on 2-3 July 2026 marked the formal opening of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The visit represented the first collective engagement between the Government of Ireland and the European Commission during the Presidency and provided an important opportunity to strengthen political relationships, establish shared understanding of Ireland's Presidency priorities and discuss the principal legislative and strategic issues expected to arise over the six-month term.

During the visit, I had the pleasure of meeting with my Commission counterparts to exchange views on priority issues relevant to my Department including actions to be progressed under the EU Affordable Housing Plan.

We have a clear set of priorities, are ambitious for what we can achieve and I look forward to working with the College of Commissioners to deliver our Presidency programme over the next six months.