Dublin, 11 November 2020: European Movement Ireland and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung held an online discussion through which speakers examined and discussed Ireland and Germany’s Priorities in a post-Brexit Europe, reflecting on the German Presidency of the Council of the EU and the Future of Europe.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney TD said, “I was delighted to take part in this European Movement Ireland and Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung online event. Though we can no longer meet in person or hold physical events as we normally would, it is important that we stay connected. Events like this are a good way of making sure we continue to consider and debate the future of the EU, and I was happy to take part in a lively discussion that touched on topics of importance to Ireland, Germany and the EU. I would like to thank EMI and KAS for hosting the event, and Ambassador Deike Potzel for providing her insights and views on the work of the German Presidency, as well Germany’s views on the future of the EU.”

H.E. Deike Potzel, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Ireland said, “A stronger and more innovative, a fair, a sustainable Europe, a Europe of security and common values, a strong Europe in the world is what we want. We will make every effort to continuously develop the invaluable peace project European Union further.”

Matthias Barner, (newly appointed) Director Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung UK & Ireland commented, “Ireland and Germany share many common values and goals. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung is committed to a close relationship, and increased engagement and activities with our partners in Ireland. We are delighted to have partnered with European Movement Ireland for this event and we look forward to future events.”

Finally, Noelle O Connell, CEO of EM Ireland said, “We were delighted to co-organise this event with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung to explore, discuss and debate both Ireland and Germany’s priorities post-Brexit, and indeed to hear Minister Coveney and Ambassador Potzel’s valuable insights. It is poignant that our event took place on Armistice Day and on the week that Germany marked the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. These key events have been part of shaping the EU of today. The challenges the EU faces, however, have multiplied since, with an uncertain international environment, democratic backsliding, disinformation and the outbreak of Covid-19, to name but a few. These challenges do, however highlight the role that the EU can play to support and coordinate economic recovery, to deal with climate change, in repairing and enhancing EU supply chains, and in how we co-operate on health care issues. With 50 days to go now until the end of the transition phase and the challenges posed by Brexit, these issues will have profound implications on European policies and politics for years to come and will be at the core of debates on the future of Europe.”