According to figures provided to the Dáil, Ireland’s government has incurred €75.2 million in expenses for hosting its six-month EU Presidency through the end of August. This expenditure is a part of the country’s efforts to manage and host an extensive schedule of around 250 events, which include ministerial meetings and gatherings of European leaders.
The Department of Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration accounted for the largest share of this spending, reporting €26.3 million primarily due to additional policing and security costs. The Department of Foreign Affairs followed with expenditures of €20.3 million, while the Office of Public Works spent €19.6 million.
The Irish government had initially allocated a budget of €300 million in the 2026 Estimates to cover the overall expenses associated with hosting the EU Presidency. In addition, An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police service, received an extra €125 million to handle security and related duties throughout the presidency.
Although the current figures reflect costs up to August, the final total expenses are expected to be determined by 2027, after all events have concluded and any outstanding bills are settled. This timeline underscores the complexity and scale of hosting such a significant international role, as Ireland continues to facilitate numerous high-profile events and meetings.