EU-UK relations are set for renewed attention as Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne TD calls for closer cooperation to reduce trade barriers and strengthen ties between Ireland, the United Kingdom and the European Union.
EU-UK relations take centre stage in Dublin
Minister Byrne is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the British Irish Chamber of Commerce’s EU Presidency event at Dublin City Hall on 23 September 2026. The event, titled “Reducing Friction: Addressing UK-EU Trade Barriers”, brings together business leaders, policymakers and specialists to examine how the trading relationship can be improved.
A panel discussion will focus on implementing the Trade and Cooperation Agreement and considering the future direction of EU-UK relations. For Irish companies, reducing administrative and regulatory obstacles remains an important part of supporting cross-border commerce and wider European trade.
Agreements under discussion
Speaking before the event, Minister Byrne referred to the ambition demonstrated at the first EU-UK Summit. He said discussions were continuing with UK Minister for European Relations Hamish Falconer and European Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, with the aim of finalising a core package of agreements ahead of the next summit.
The areas identified include:
- A sanitary and phytosanitary area to address rules affecting food and agricultural trade
- Cooperation on an emissions trading system
- A proposed Youth Experience Scheme
These measures could influence movement between the EU and UK, environmental policy coordination and opportunities for young people to gain experience across both markets.
Why closer EU-UK cooperation matters for Ireland
Minister Byrne said a stronger EU-UK partnership could reduce barriers to cooperation “North, South, East and West”. That message is particularly relevant to Ireland, where businesses, communities and institutions maintain extensive links across the island and the Irish Sea.
The statement comes as Ireland marks ten years since the Brexit referendum. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the period has involved significant change and difficulty, alongside continued cooperation and collaboration.
The British Irish Chamber of Commerce was also recognised for supporting dialogue between businesses and decision-makers. Its members represent an important channel for identifying practical difficulties created by new trading arrangements and developing solutions.
Read more: Latest Ireland government news and public policy updates
Trade barriers remain a key policy concern
The Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides the framework for EU-UK relations after Brexit, but companies continue to navigate customs processes, regulatory requirements and product certification rules. Any future agreements will therefore be closely watched by exporters, importers and firms operating in both jurisdictions.
Government bodies including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Bord Bia and the Revenue Commissioners may have a role in helping businesses understand changing requirements, depending on the sector involved. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade remains central to Ireland’s engagement with European and international partners.
The discussions also have a wider geopolitical context. According to Minister Byrne, stronger cooperation would help deliver for citizens and businesses at a time of international uncertainty.
Explore more: Ireland business, Brexit and European affairs coverage | Irish lifestyle, travel and international stories
What happens next?
Attention now turns to the next EU-UK Summit and whether the proposed package of agreements can be completed. Businesses will be looking for clearer rules, lower friction and practical improvements to the movement of goods, services and people.
The Dublin event provides an opportunity for the business community to contribute to that discussion. Its central message is clear: sustained engagement between Ireland, the UK and the EU remains essential to building a more effective and cooperative relationship.
Key takeaway: EU-UK relations could enter a new phase if proposed agreements on food standards, emissions trading and youth mobility are finalised. For Ireland, reducing barriers remains vital to trade, cooperation and cross-border connections.
Article information
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
