EU 2027 budget talks: Harris to chair Brussels negotiations

Brussels prepares to settle final year of EU spending plan

Tánaiste Simon Harris will lead the negotiations in Brussels on Tuesday, 10 November, taking over as chair of the ECOFIN Budget Council before meeting directly with the European Parliament to agree the final figures, RTÉ reported.

The outcome will affect funding across a range of areas, including agriculture, business support, infrastructure and education. 

As 2027 marks the end of the EU's current spending cycle, the deal will also determine the final year's financial arrangements under the existing plan.

Harris says EU needs financial buffer for unpredictable events

Harris said he wanted to reach an agreement that would meet the EU's priorities while ensuring public money was used responsibly.

"I will work with members of the European Parliament to reach an agreement for a budget that meets the EU's needs while ensuring that our taxpayers' money is spent carefully and effectively," he said.

He also said the budget needed to leave enough money available to deal with unexpected events, particularly given the current geopolitical climate.

"Our approach will also ensure that there is sufficient room in the budget for the EU to respond to unexpected challenges which may arise in 2027, providing a critical buffer in the current geopolitical environment."