Security and energy top EU priorities for Irish people

68% of Irish people said they had difficulties paying bills 'most of the time', compared to the EU average of 40%.

Irish people believe defence and security, along with energy independence, are the two top areas that the EU should focus on to strengthen its position in the world, a survey shows.

The European Parliament Eurobarometer Spring 2026 Survey also found almost nine out of 10 Irish people believe the US is going in the “wrong direction” — the fifth highest among 27 member states.