Irish Universities Association Universities50 Event

5 October 2022

An evening reception was held in Iveagh House on Tuesday 6th September, hosted by Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, TD.

Ministers Simon Harris and Thomas Byrne speaking at the event.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD and Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne TD.

The reception was organised by the Irish Universities Association to mark 50 years of Ireland’s membership of the European Union. Kerstin Mey, President of the University of Limerick, Daire Keogh, President of DCU and Eeva Leinonen, President of Maynooth University spoke on a panel about the role played by Irish Universities in Europe. The event was also attended by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris.

Quote from Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, TD

"This celebration of EU50 at third level is important in ensuring to recognise the deep impact European Union membership has had on Ireland’s University sector and on our young people’s education and lives over the last 50 years - and in highlighting the continued two-way opportunities for both Irish and European students and Irish and European universities across all disciplines."

Minister Simon Harris speaking at a podium in front of the Irish and EU flags
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD.