merrion street

The Taoiseach, Tánaiste and European Affairs Minister today launched the winning logo for Ireland’s EU Presidency in the first half of 2013. The logo was chosen by the public in an online poll which received more than 14,000 votes from 30 Nov to 31 Dec.

Speaking at the launch the Taoiseach said:

Ireland’s EU Presidency will provide us with an opportunity to once again demonstrate our ability to manage the agenda of the EU and to deliver a first class Presidency. This is a unique opportunity for us to accentuate positive perceptions about our Country as a small, vibrant, open and innovative State and a committed member of the European Union.

Joining the Taoiseach at the event, the Tánaiste said:

The Presidency will bring thousands of delegates and visitors to Ireland in 2013, giving us the opportunity to showcase the country to a wide audience. The Presidency will also provide an occasion for us to reflect on our four decades of EU membership and I believe it is an opportune time for us to have a national debate on how we see our future in Europe.

Minister Creighton outlined some of promotional opportunities that the Presidency can create:

I am delighted that we now have a logo which forms an integral part of part of the development of a visual identity for Ireland’s Presidency. Work is underway on the development of the promotional aspects of the Presidency and securing the long-term benefits that can be accrued from getting this right.

The Taoiseach gave his opinion on the new logo to MerrionStreet.ie earlier this evening:

Read the full press release here.