“Strong, competitive, innovative” Mayo minister backs stronger European space sector
Minister Alan Dillon represents Ireland in Brussels discussions on innovation, security and the future of Europe’s space industry
Mayo Minister Alan Dillon has represented Ireland at the EU Competitiveness Council (Space) in Brussels, where European ministers discussed the future of Europe’s space sector.
The minister, who serves at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, joined EU counterparts to examine priorities aimed at strengthening Europe’s leadership in space and with a focus on competitiveness, innovation and security.
At the meeting, Minister Dillon highlighted Ireland’s commitment to advancing Europe’s space policy agenda and supporting measures designed to strengthen competitiveness and innovation in the sector.
Discussions centred on how space-based technologies can better support businesses and citizens while enhancing Europe’s long-term strategic resilience.
Speaking after the Council meeting, Minister Dillon said Ireland remains committed to working closely with European partners to support a strong and competitive space sector.
“Ireland is committed to supporting a strong, competitive, and innovative European space sector,” he said.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with our European partners to advance shared priorities, including the development of a resilient space ecosystem and the effective use of space-based technologies to benefit citizens and businesses across Europe.”
A key focus of the meeting was progress on a number of major EU legislative initiatives in the space domain.
Among the proposals discussed was the planned EU Space Act, aimed at improving the safety and sustainability of space activities across Europe.
Ministers also examined proposals for an EU Space Services Agency Regulation, which would establish a permanent agency tasked with implementing Union Space Programmes.
The Competitiveness Council (Space) plays a central role in shaping policy around Europe’s space ambitions, including the EU Space Programme and long-term strategic autonomy in the sector.
Minister Dillon said Ireland would continue supporting legislative progress that helps strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and encourages growth within the European space industry.