EU and Central Policy Division

The EU and Central Policy Division is responsible for the following areas.

Coordination of EU related activities for the department, including EU infringements and material for the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport.

Prepare comprehensive EU Transport Council briefing and other briefing material as required.

Coordinate all engagement with EU policy in relation to the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).

Represent the department at relevant EU TEN-T/CEF Committee meetings, at the North Sea Mediterranean Corridor Forum and the Motorways of the Sea Forum, and at all Interdepartmental EU groups.

Review, report to Minister and provide Member State sign-off on Irish applications for CEF-related funding. Act as key contact point for the EU’s Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (INEA) in relation to Irish project beneficiaries of CEF funding.

Coordination of department’s contingency planning for Brexit and effective coordination and representation of department’s position, including in relation to the future EU/UK relationship.

Participate in all relevant inter-departmental Brexit Working Groups to input the department’s position and disseminate information received to relevant Divisions, agencies, and stakeholders, as appropriate.

Chair monthly meetings of the department’s Brexit Committee.

Coordinating and developing departmental positions on new or developing government policies impacting on departmental functions.

Representing the department at associated Interdepartmental Groups where required, including in relation to the Migration Integration Strategy, the National Strategy for Women and Girls (2017-2020), the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy, a Roadmap for Social Inclusion 2019-2025, and Better Outcomes Brighter Futures.

Acting as contact point for child protection and welfare issues ensuring the department meets its requirements under the Children First Act 2015.

Ensuring the department meet the requirements of the Public Sector Duty Act 2014, including assessing human rights and equality responsibilities under the Act.