25 Mar 2026

You're Invited: In conversation with Tony Connelly: Ireland’s EU Presidency in a Changing Europe

As Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in July, join us for an informative discussion with Tony Connelly, European Editor of RTÉ, Ireland’s public broadcaster. Tony’s extensive experience covering EU affairs for over 25 years, from successive treaty negotiations, EU enlargement, the Financial Crisis, Brexit, the War in Ukraine to the evolving political dynamics within the institutions, has made him one of the most authoritative voices on European politics.

In this timely fireside chat, we will explore Ireland’s Presidency against the backdrop of a changing Europe in an increasingly complex global geopolitical landscape. Our discussion with Tony will take us through Ireland's Presidency priorities, what will shape and drive the agenda in the second half of 2026, and the major policy items expected to dominate discussions. From competitiveness to defence, AI and digital policy, migration, climate ambition, and negotiations around the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework, we will examine the political, economic and geopolitical forces that will define Ireland’s term.

Hosted by FTI Consulting in Brussels, this event will convene guests for an in-depth and practical conversation on what the Presidency will mean for business, policymakers and stakeholders across Europe. We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a thoughtful and engaging discussion.

Speaker

Tony Connelly

Europe Editor for RTÉ

Tony Connelly is Europe Editor for RTÉ, Ireland’s public broadcaster, covering EU and European Affairs, as well as conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
He has also reported on conflicts in Africa, the Caucasus and the Balkans.

Tony extensively covered Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union and its impact on Ireland. He was called as an expert witness on three occasions to House of Commons Brexit committees, as well as to the Oireachtas Committee on European Affairs.

His book Brexit and Ireland: the Dangers, the Opportunities, the Inside Story of the Irish Response, was nominated Irish non-fiction book of the year in 2018.

Agenda

12:00pm Welcome, registration & lunch

12:30pm Opening remarks by Hans Hack, Head of Strategic Communications, FTI Consulting Brussels

12:45pm Fireside chat with Tony Connelly, hosted by Melanie Farrell, Managing Director FTI Consulting Dublin

2:00pm Event concludes

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