European regional leaders adopt landmark declaration in Mullingar
Prominent EU representatives gathered in County Westmeath to prioritise the development of sustainable local communities across member states. The assembly concluded by ratifying a significant policy document aimed at ensuring citizens can thrive within their home regions.
Senior political figures from across the European Union convened at the Mullingar Park Hotel to deliberate on the future of regional development. Hosted as part of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the External Bureau meeting of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) focused on the theme of building resilient and sustainable territories. Key participants included CoR President Kata Tüttő, Irish delegation chair Gillian Coughlan, and Andalucian President Juanma Moreno.
Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD opened the proceedings by highlighting the vital link between local government and the 450 million citizens residing within the EU. Emphasising the necessity of empowering local authorities, Minister of State John Cummins TD noted that the committee serves as an essential mechanism for ensuring that European legislation remains responsive to the specific needs of diverse towns and cities. The discussions centred on fostering economic innovation and securing the "right to stay," a concept advocating for equitable access to housing, employment, and essential services.
The summit culminated in the formal adoption of the Mullingar Declaration, titled "A Future worth staying for." This policy framework calls for a robust, place-based European strategy that prioritises climate resilience and enhanced cohesion policy for the 2028-2034 period. Following the event, delegates engaged in a cultural programme at Belvedere House, while the Conference of Presidents scheduled a follow-up meeting with Minister Cummins at the Custom House in Dublin to further refine the committee's political priorities.