Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership for Ireland's EU Presidency 2026
As part of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026, Leitrim County Council is participating in a partnership initiative with Cyprus. The programme promotes cultural exchange, community engagement and awareness of the European Union at a local level.
Launch of the Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership
Representatives of Leitrim County Council at the launch of the Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership at Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon.
The Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership was officially launched with a flag-raising ceremony at Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon, marking the beginning of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The ceremony was attended by Mary Quinn, Acting Chief Executive; Cathaoirleach Mary Bohan; and other senior members of staff. The event celebrated the partnership between Leitrim and Cyprus and highlighted the importance of European cooperation, friendship and shared values.
Ambassadorial Delegation Visit
As part of the Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership, County Leitrim will welcome a delegation of Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives.
The visit will provide an opportunity to showcase County Leitrim's rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, tourism offering and economic strengths. Delegates will visit locations across the county and engage with local stakeholders, gaining an insight into the unique character, culture and opportunities that Leitrim has to offer.
As part of the visit, delegates will engage with local communities, schools and organisations across the county, promoting cultural exchange, European cooperation and community engagement. School activities will include student project showcases exploring what the European Union means to young people, as well as opportunities for students to discuss the future of Europe and learn more about diplomacy and EU citizenship. The programme will also include civic events celebrating the partnership between Leitrim and Cyprus.
The partnership is supported by the involvement of H.E. Sarah Hamilton, Ambassador of Ireland to Cyprus, and Mr. Alexandros Petrou, Representative of the Embassy of Cyprus to Ireland.
Schools Participation Programme
Schools across County Leitrim are invited to participate in the EU Presidency Schools Programme, which encourages students to explore the European Union, Ireland's EU Presidency and Leitrim's partnership with Cyprus. Participating schools will have the opportunity to showcase projects and creative work exploring European themes and what being part of Europe means to young people.
Schools wishing to participate can complete the Expression of Interest Form using the link below.
Closing date for Expressions of Interest: 7 October 2026.
Expression of Interest – EU Presidency 2026 Schools Project – Fill in form
Further updates on the programme and partnership activities will be added throughout Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Programme Support
The Leitrim-Cyprus Partnership forms part of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026 and is supported by the Communicating Europe Initiative, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs.