Minister of State Thomas Byrne TD at Columbia University

Minister of State for European Affairs Thomas Byrne TD addressed an audience of students and faculty at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs during a visit to New York in November.

In a discussion moderated by Professor Adam Tooze, the Minister discussed the urgent challenges Europe faces and how Ireland – after 50 years of EU membership - is playing its part, including by strengthening transatlantic partnership.

Professor Tooze and Minister Byrne exchanged views on a range of issues, from Ukraine and Brexit to Europe’s energy crisis and climate change. In addition, the Minister discussed the progress the European Union must make for the next 50 years to be as successful as the last. Minister Byrne noted that Ireland’s EU accession had been transformative for the country in every dimension.