Ireland has placed cyber security at the centre of its EU Presidency agenda, bringing senior European officials, researchers and industry representatives together in Dublin to address growing digital risks. The cyber security conference, hosted by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is examining how Europe can protect essential services while supporting innovation and economic growth.
Cyber security conference highlights Europe’s digital priorities
The event takes place at the Convention Centre Dublin on 7 October 2026 and forms the centrepiece of Cyber Week, running from 5 to 9 October. Minister of State Catherine Ardagh opened the conference, which includes participants from government, EU institutions, business, academia and the wider European cyber security community.
Discussions are organised around Ireland’s three EU Presidency themes: competitiveness, values and security. Delegates are considering practical responses to shared challenges, including:
- Cybercrime and hybrid threats
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Cyber diplomacy and digital sovereignty
- Regulation and ICT supply-chain security
- Protection of critical and essential services
The conference reflects the growing importance of cyber security to national resilience, public safety and the competitiveness of the European digital economy.
Ireland’s EU Presidency focuses on stronger cyber resilience
A key issue on the agenda is the review of the Cybersecurity Act, including proposals concerning the security of ICT supply chains. The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration said progress in this area could strengthen Europe’s collective security and economic resilience while preserving an open and innovative digital market.
Richard Browne, Director General of the NCSC, emphasised that effective cyber security depends on cooperation between government, industry, researchers and international partners. The conference provides an opportunity to exchange experience and develop a shared approach to complex digital threats.
As Ireland’s national cyber security authority, the NCSC plays a central role in supporting national preparedness and engagement with European counterparts. The event also demonstrates the role of the Department of Justice and wider public-service bodies in responding to cybercrime and online security risks.
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Cyber Expo showcases Ireland’s technology ecosystem
Alongside the conference, the Cyber Expo is taking place at the Convention Centre Dublin from 6 to 8 October. It showcases cyber security research, expertise and innovation from Irish, European and international organisations.
The expo gives delegates an opportunity to meet technology companies, researchers and public-sector partners, exchange ideas and examine emerging solutions. Cyber Week also includes meetings involving European regulatory and operational cyber security groups, supporting dialogue between national authorities and EU partners.
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Why the Dublin conference matters
Cyber attacks can affect public services, businesses, supply chains and national infrastructure. By placing cyber security within the EU Presidency programme, Ireland is helping keep digital resilience, fundamental rights and secure innovation high on Europe’s policy agenda.
The conference also underlines the importance of collaboration. No single country or organisation can address cybercrime, artificial intelligence risks and hybrid threats alone. Shared standards, trusted partnerships and coordinated regulation will remain essential as Europe’s digital dependence grows.
Frequently asked questions
When is Ireland’s EU Presidency cyber security conference?
The conference takes place on 7 October 2026 at the Convention Centre Dublin.
Who is hosting the event?
The National Cyber Security Centre is hosting the conference as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
What is Cyber Week?
Cyber Week runs from 5 to 9 October 2026 and includes the conference, the Cyber Expo and meetings of European cyber security groups.
Ireland’s EU Presidency conference shows that cyber security is not only a technical concern but a foundation of economic resilience, public protection and democratic values. Its central takeaway is clear: a safer European digital future will depend on sustained cooperation across governments, industry, research and international partners.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
