13 May 2026 CEO David Geary and Deputy CEO Lorna Hayes appeared before the Committee on European Affairs to discuss European Movement Ireland’s Island of Ireland EU Poll 2026. As Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, they outlined to the Chair and its members, that support for EU membership remains strong at 82%, though down from a peak of 93% in 2019.
The poll received extensive political coverage across Ireland, Northern Ireland and in Great Britain, and was referenced by Government and opposition parties, including during Europe Day statements in the Houses of the Oireachtas. First launched during Ireland’s last EU Presidency in 2013, it is the only island of Ireland research dedicated to European affairs.
CEO European Movement Ireland David Geary said; “As Ireland prepares for the EU Presidency, the poll findings indicate a clear strong and stable support for EU membership across this island. In addition, it recognises the volatility in geopolitics at present, reflecting the desire for a more independent EU, yet firmly recognising the deep economic and political ties we share with the US. It is also notable we are seeing a decline among some of the electorate in satisfaction with the EU’s direction of travel; this is a challenge we must be cognisant of and how we can shape a Europe led by values into the future.”
Deputy CEO Lorna Hayes said; “As Ireland prepares for the EU Presidency at a time of profound geopolitical instability, the findings of this poll send a clear message: people expect the European Union to stand firmly by its founding values, defend international law, and show principled leadership on the global stage. Public dissatisfaction with the EU’s response to issues such as the Israel’s deepening onslaught in the Middle East underlines the urgent need for a more consistent, credible and values led foreign policy.”
CEO David Geary concludes; “In the tenth year of the Brexit referendum anniversary our poll indicates support in Northern Ireland for rejoining the EU. While a repeat of the EU-UK referendum is unlikely anytime soon, considering the recent local election results across Great Britain, the findings underline the importance of EU level representation for Northern Ireland given that EU law applies there. Our research also points to important discussions on the future of this island, given the support expressed in the poll for a United Ireland within the EU. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of understanding any constitutional debate through the prism of strong attachment to EU membership in Northern Ireland.”
European Movement Ireland Island of Ireland EU Poll 2026 was conducted by Amárach Research with 1,200 respondents in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland (2,400 total respondents).
For more information visit: europeanmovement.ie/islandofirelandeupoll2026