132. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport 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. [53919/26]

The Visit of the College of Commissioners to Ireland took place in Cork on 2-3 July 2026 as one of the first major political engagements 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 a shared understanding of Ireland’s Presidency priorities and discuss the principal legislative and strategic issues expected to arise over the six-month term.

As is customary during a visit of the College of Commissioners, the programme included an external site tour along with substantive policy discussions. Commissioners and Ministers visited the Tyndall National Institute, where they were briefed on Ireland’s leading work in semiconductor research and advanced technologies, highlighting the contribution of Irish research and innovation to Europe’s competitiveness, technological leadership and economic resilience.

The discussions provided an opportunity to exchange views on the Irish Presidency’s priorities and identify areas of shared ambition. The plenary also provided an opportunity for Ministers and Commissioners to exchange views on the opportunities and challenges that will arise during the Irish Presidency programme. There was a high degree of alignment between the Government of Ireland and the European Commission on the priorities and objectives of the Irish Presidency and the discussions were an invaluable exchange of views on a range of transport files.