Irish Regions showcase projects at the EU Committee of the Regions in Brussels
Longford’s Creating the Demand – Shaping Our County’s Future & STEM education in the Midlands recognised at celebratory event
Press Release: Monday, 13 July 2026
Longford’s Creating the Demand – Shaping Our County’s Future and STEM education in the Midlands were two of the projects featured in the Irish Regions showcase at the EU Committee of the Regions in Brussels with representatives from Longford County Council joining in the recent celebratory event.
The Irish Delegation to the European Committee of the Regions, together with the Irish Regions European Office, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, the Northern and Western Regional Assembly, and the Southern Regional Assembly, hosted a special welcome reception in Brussels marking the commencement of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 July 2026.
Entitled ‘Tionscnaimh agus Táirgí na hÉireann – Projects and Produce of Ireland,’ the event brought together over 300 local and regional representatives from across Europe, alongside EU officials, MEPs and representatives of Ireland’s Permanent Representation to the EU.
The reception showcased the strength, innovation and diversity of Ireland’s regions and highlighted the significant contribution that local and regional authorities make to delivering European priorities on the ground. It also demonstrated the tangible benefits of EU membership, collaboration and EU co-funding for communities, businesses and citizens across Ireland.
Longford County Council’s Creating the Demand – Shaping Our County’s Future is engaging primary and post-primary students in STEM to encourage interest in Computer Science. The project also supports schools with the equipment and classroom resources needed to deliver the subject. The project is a key objective of Longford County Council’s IT department’s strategy and the innovative approach by the council’s IT section to create the environment to allow every post primary school in County Longford to offer Computer Science as a Leaving Cert subject. This programme provides communities in County Longford with the skills they need to take advantage of the State’s €34 million National Broadband Plan’s investment in the county.
At the event, Longford County Council representatives highlighted the success of the STEM Passport for Inclusion Programme, which enables Transition Year students to obtain a Level 6 qualification in 21st Century STEM Skills. The local delivery of the programme has enhanced accessibility for rural communities by reducing travel time and associated costs for participants.
STEM education in the Midlands is one package of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Pathway for Just Transition project, which is led by Midlands Ireland and funded through the EU Just Transition Fund. The project combines a series of work packages that advance skill development, capacity building, collaboration amongst domestic producers and fosters innovation and creativity in the Midland’s local economy. The STEM education pillar brings robotics programmes to local schools across Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath to get students interested in robotics and STEM-related activities like science, engineering, coding, math, technology and computer science, as well as teamwork and collaboration.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Gerry Hagan said, “It is a source of real pride to see County Longford represented in Brussels alongside regions from across Europe. The work on display reflects the ambition of our communities and the positive impact of EU support in our county. The focus on STEM education shows how we are investing in our young people. By giving students these skills now, we are helping to shape a stronger future for Longford and the wider Midlands.”
Deputy Chief Executive of Longford County Council, John Brannigan said, “Through the Just Transition programme and wider EU supports, we are investing in skills, innovation and local enterprise. This is helping communities across County Longford adapt and grow in a practical and sustainable way.”
The evening featured exhibitions from Ireland’s three Regional Assemblies, focusing on projects co-funded by the Government of Ireland and EU that are delivering tangible benefits and meaningful change in communities throughout the country. These projects reflect the breadth of innovation taking place across Ireland in areas such as innovation, sustainability, skills, rural development and community wellbeing. Featured projects included the MET Technology Gateway at Atlantic Technological University, TUAM Station House THRIVE project, ARC Hub for Therapeutics, MTU Cyber Innovate, CycleUp, Peatlands for Prosperity and STEM education in the Midlands demonstrating how European and national investment and collaboration is helping regions to thrive.
Guests sampled a diverse range of regional food and drink, reflecting the strength of Ireland’s local producers and the distinct identity of each region. The event provided a warm and authentic sense of Ireland, rooted in place, community and tradition.
Adding to the atmosphere, the reception featured live traditional Irish music and dance, offering a vibrant cultural welcome to visitors from across Europe.
