Matheson launches new EU Presidency Hub
Pictured: Matheson's Claire Scannell (left) and Darren Maher (right) with Neale Richmond, minister of state for international development and diaspora.
Matheson has launched a new EU Presidency Hub to support clients and stakeholders as Ireland prepares to assume the presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The launch of the dedicated information resource coincided with an event at the firm’s Dublin office addressed by Neale Richmond, the minister of state for international development and diaspora.
The briefing event last week focused on the key political, legal, and economic priorities that will shape Ireland’s EU presidency in 2026, including Ireland’s role in steering the EU legislative agenda, managing complex geopolitical challenges, and advancing competitiveness and growth across the EU.
Mr Richmond shared his perspectives on the evolving EU political landscape, the strategic priorities for Ireland’s presidency, and the institutional challenges facing the EU.
He highlighted the significance of negotiations on the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework, the growing focus on security and defence cooperation, the need for regulatory simplification to support business, and the importance of strengthening EU competitiveness and advancing an open, rules-based trade agenda.
Referencing Matheson’s client base, Mr Richmond noted that Ireland’s presidency offers an ideal window for multinationals to visit Ireland at a time when the country sits at the centre of European attention and engagement.
He said this elevated profile provides organisations with unparalleled access to key European stakeholders, policymakers, and decision-makers, creating strategic opportunities for engagement that extend well beyond typical business-as-usual interactions.
Matheson’s new EU Presidency Hub, launched at the event, will provide legal analyses, policy briefings, and practical guidance on traversing the EU legislative process, negotiations, and regulatory developments.
Matheson managing partner Darren Maher, who chaired the Q&A with Mr Richmond, said: “The decisions made during Ireland’s presidency will shape Europe for years to come, and we’re committed to ensuring our clients are positioned for success every step of the way.
“Throughout this year, Matheson will be providing insights — through both our new EU Presidency Hub and a dedicated programme of events — into the key regulatory developments, helping clients to anticipate upcoming changes and connecting them with the policy discussions that will shape the business environment.”




