IEA Executive Director meets with Ireland’s President and Taoiseach during Dublin visit - News
Earlier in the day, Dr Birol spoke with President Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin, where they exchanged views on key global energy issues, particularly the urgent development needs in Africa, and the links between energy security, food security and socio-economic development. Both shared a strong focus on addressing these issues as matters of high importance. He then met with Minister O’Brien for discussions on Ireland’s energy priorities including improvements to power networks, interconnection, energy efficiency progress and Ireland’s upcoming EU presidency in 2026. As part of the visit, Dr Birol delivered a keynote address at the Global Ireland Summit held at Dublin Castle. Speaking to around 500 delegates including Irish ambassadors from around the world and business leaders, Dr Birol focused on the need for Ireland to accelerate investment in grids, to make permitting more efficient, and to focus on energy security and costs. The visit also included meetings with the Irish Business and Employers' Confederation (IBEC) to discuss people-centred transitions and clean energy employment as part of the IEA’s engagement with Ireland across the policy and business landscape.
