On Thursday 26th March, H.E. Mariá Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat, Ambassador of Spain to Ireland, visited Wicklow County Council to discuss the possible programme of events as part of Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The Presidency, which commences on the 1st July 2026, will feature an inclusive programme of events which will ensure all communities have the opportunity to engage with the EU Presidency. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have paired County Wicklow with Spain.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Deputy Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Brian Gleeson and Directors of Services Leonora Earls and Theresa O’Brien met with the Ambassador during the visit.

Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan stated, “I welcome this opportunity for the people of Wicklow to engage with the Presidency of the Council of the European Union; we aim to build and develop a long-term link between County Wicklow and Spain.”

Deputy Chief Executive Brian Gleeson commented, “We recognise that public libraries and schools are cornerstones of community life across the County, and we propose to carry out inclusive community events in both as part of this programme of events.”

H.E. Mariá Teresa Lizaranzu Perinat, Ambassador of Spain to Ireland thanked Wicklow County Council for their hospitality and stated,” I am delighted with the opportunity to strengthen co-operation between Spain and Wicklow.”