Kildare marks Ireland’s EU Presidency with flag raising ceremony at Áras Chill Dara
Kildare County Council today marked the beginning of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union with a flag raising ceremony at Áras Chill Dara, Naas.
The ceremony, hosted by Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Tim Durkan, brought together civic, diplomatic and community representatives to celebrate Ireland’s eighth Presidency of the Council of the European Union and to recognise Kildare’s connection with Austria through the EU Presidency County Pairings initiative. Kildare County Council was pleased to welcome Her Excellency Melitta Schubert, Ambassador of Austria to Ireland, to Kildare for the occasion.
As part of the event, the Irish, European Union and Austrian flags were raised by members of the Defence Forces, symbolising Ireland’s national role, its continued commitment to the European Union, and the friendship between Kildare, Ireland and Austria.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare, Cllr Tim Durkan said: “As we raise these flags today, we do so with pride in Ireland, respect for our European neighbours, and confidence in what we can achieve together. This is also an important opportunity to reflect on Ireland’s place in Europe and the role of local communities in strengthening European relationships. The official slogan for Ireland’s Presidency is the Irish proverb, ‘Ní neart go cur le chéile’ — strength with unity. That message is especially fitting today.”
Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Kildare County Council said: “Today’s ceremony reflects Kildare’s strong civic, cultural and economic connections with Europe. Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union is a significant period nationally, but it also has strong local meaning. Here in Kildare, our communities, businesses and institutions are closely connected to Europe through enterprise, education, culture, tourism, agriculture and civic life. Today’s flag raising is a reminder that European co-operation is not distant from local communities, it is part of how we work together, share ideas and build a stronger future.”
Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union runs from 1 July to 31 December 2026. The Presidency will focus on three core themes: competitiveness, values and security. These priorities reflect the European Union’s Strategic Agenda and will guide Ireland’s work over the six-month term.
During the Presidency, Ireland will lead and support work across a wide range of EU policy areas, including strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and productivity, safeguarding the values of the Union, supporting European security, continuing strong support for Ukraine, and advancing discussions on the next Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028 to 2034.
Approximately 270 meetings will be hosted in Ireland during the Presidency, providing an opportunity to welcome Ministers, officials and partners from across Europe and to showcase communities throughout the country.
The Presidency also provides an important opportunity for communities across Ireland to engage with EU issues and European relationships. Initiatives such as the Presidency County Pairings programme, delivered with the support of the Department of Foreign Affairs, are designed to ensure that people in every county can participate in and connect with Ireland’s Presidency.
