The inaugural meeting of the European Council took place in Dublin on 10 and 11 March 1975.

It was a pivotal moment for Ireland and Europe. The meeting was convened to address pressing economic challenges and to provide political direction for the then European Community.

At the meeting, the Council approved the Community's budget. Other matters discussed included relations between the European Community and New Zealand, the economic and social situation in the Community, problems with raw materials in the context of relations with developing countries and, finally, problems with the Community's energy policy.

For Ireland, hosting the meeting underscored our growing role within the European framework. It highlighted the Ireland’s commitment to European integration and our capacity to facilitate high-level discussions among Member States.

For Europe, the Dublin meeting was significant as it marked the formal establishment of the European Council, providing a platform for Heads of State and Government, to set the EU’s overall political direction and priorities.

That first meeting of the European Council, in Dublin Castle, was a landmark event that enhanced Ireland’s influence in European affairs and laid the groundwork for more structured political co-operation within Europe.