As Ireland takes over the Presidency of the European Union, a local Senator has outlined how important the role is.
Senator Joe O'Reilly is a Member of the Sub-Committee on Children of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
He explained that it is a prestigious, influential role for Ireland to undertake.
According to Senator O'Reilly Ireland will set the agenda for the EU for the next six months.
Speaking to Northern Sound, he said that Ireland "are the bosses" for the duration of its presidency.
The Co. Cavan Senator explained the role Ireland will play in European affairs during its presidency.
He said: "We will be setting the agenda, in Dublin and all around the country. In other words, it will be Ireland's gig. In simple terms, its our show for the next six months.
"A recent survey showed that 80% of people felt that Europe had brought prosperity and great success to the country.
"I lived in the Ireland before the EU - as a young lad, I hasten to add- I know the Ireland afterwards. They're incomparable," he added.
