Taoiseach

The Taoiseach has expressed significant concern over the potential consequences of US President Donald Trump's threat to impose 50% tariffs on the EU starting in June, stating that such a move would be "very damaging." Following Mr. Trump's announcement, European stocks experienced a sharp decline, and the euro saw a drop in value. Additionally, eurozone government bond yields fell considerably, indicating a ripple effect across global markets. On his Truth Social platform, Mr. Trump remarked, "The European Union, which…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed his intent to seek "demanding answers" from Israel following an incident where Israeli forces fired upon a European Union delegation that included two Irish diplomats in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli military stated that warning shots were fired during the visit to Jenin, prompting widespread condemnation as pressure mounts on Israel to facilitate aid to Gaza. Among the diplomats involved were the head of mission from the Irish Representative Office in Palestine and the deputy…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed his approval of the recent EU-UK summit in London, describing it as a "landmark moment." This summit marks a significant step forward as the EU and UK work towards resetting their relationship. British Prime Minister announced that this new agreement is projected to inject nearly £9 billion (€10.6 billion) into the UK economy by the year 2040. One prominent aspect of this agreement is the establishment of a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) deal that pertains to plant and animal…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has joined forces with several European Union and non-EU leaders to issue a compelling statement that condemns what they describe as "the man-made humanitarian catastrophe unfolding before our eyes in Gaza." This strong declaration was signed not only by the Taoiseach but also by the leaders of Iceland, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain, during a sidebar meeting at a summit in Albania. Mr. Martin could not attend due to the funeral of Garda Kevin Flatley, which took place on the same…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has expressed profound concern over the recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, which tragically resulted in the loss of hundreds of civilian lives. He emphasized the urgent need for an end to hostilities in the region, stating, "For the sake of the civilians in Gaza, who have already endured unimaginable hardships, there must be an immediate cessation of all fighting." The strikes were reported in various locations, including northern Gaza, Gaza City, and central and southern areas such as Deir…

The Taoiseach of Ireland, Micheál Martin, recently expressed that Ireland stands to benefit significantly if the United Kingdom successfully negotiates an advantageous economic deal with the United States. He pointed out that while it’s still "early days" in the discussions about such a deal, he firmly believes that any enhancement to the UK economy would have a positive ripple effect on Ireland. During a press conference, Mr. Martin was queried about Ireland's potential role in the UK-US negotiation process, especially…

Trump is a 'Great Friend of Ireland', Says Taoiseach In a recent statement, Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Leo Varadkar expressed his thoughts on former President Donald Trump's relationship with Ireland, calling him a “great friend”. The warmth in Varadkar's words echoes a sentiment shared by many who recognize Trump's longstanding ties to the Emerald Isle. “It’s important to remember that leaders come and go, but friendships can last a lifetime,” Varadkar remarked, highlighting the significant cultural…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin recently emphasized the crucial need for security assurances for Ukraine, particularly considering the ongoing threat from Russia. In a thought-provoking discussion with RTÉ News at the Munich Security Conference, he articulated, "If there was an imperfect peace, there have to be security guarantees for Ukraine." Such statements underscore not just a policy stance, but a commitment to pragmatic diplomacy in a precarious geopolitical landscape. The backdrop of this dialogue was marked by Ukrainian…

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has characterized the remarks made by Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, as inflammatory. Katz suggested that countries such as "Spain, Ireland, Norway, and others" bear a "legal obligation" to accept Palestinians. Such statements raise flags, especially in this complex geopolitical landscape. These comments emerged as Katz instructed the Israeli military to draft a strategy for the "voluntary departure" of Gaza's residents. This directive followed a controversial announcement from U.S.…

In a striking display of diplomatic gestures, Taoiseach Simon Harris extended his heartfelt congratulations to Donald Trump upon his ascension as the 47th President of the United States. Earlier today, the historic ceremony unfolded within the hallowed halls of the Capitol in Washington D.C., where Mr. Trump took the oath of office, symbolizing a pivotal moment in American history. Harris, in a thoughtful statement, expressed his hopes for Mr. Trump, wishing him "every success during his term-in-office." It’s as if he sent…