merrion street

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, along with ministerial colleagues, are hosting the European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents today in Dublin Castle. This is the first formal Presidency related event to take place in Ireland.

The President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, was welcomed at Dublin Castle this afternoon by the Taoiseach and Tánaiste.

Welcoming President Schulz, the Taoiseach said:

I can tell you that the Irish Presidency will be in the business of solutions because that’s what the people expect and nothing less. 2013, after all, will be the European Year of Citizens.

The difference we intend to make will be all about three objectives. Stability, jobs and growth."

I look forward to getting down to work, as a recovery country leading a recovery Europe. The preparations are nearly over. We’re ready to do business as Presidency, starting in just a few weeks’ time.

The Tánaiste said:

With many pressing issues on the table as we take over on January 1, Ireland stands ready to execute an effective and efficient Presidency.

We are already thinking about our role in relation to pushing for a deal on the EU budget – which is certainly high on my agenda as incoming Chair of the General Affairs Council. Securing a deal on the MFF is a vital step towards strengthening social cohesion and fighting unemployment – especially youth joblessness.We’re also focused on making real progress on enlargement, and leveraging the economic benefits of the Single Market.

Read the full press release

.