US-Ireland Alliance

Mitchell Scholars Visit Brussels to Learn more about EU

In March, members of the Class of ’11 [and spouses who are also living in Ireland/Northern Ireland]­­­ traveled to Brussels as guests of the Irish Permanent Representation to the EU, thanks to an invitation from Ambassador Rory Montgomery, who thought it would be valuable for them to understand the EU and its importance to Ireland.

Scholars enjoyed two days of briefings and conversations with officials and members of delegations at the European Union.  After a brief welcome and orientation, they enjoyed an official visit to the European Commission.  Lunch was hosted by the US Mission to the EU. They then were privileged to go to the European Policy Center, before meeting with members of the US and Canadian units at the European External Action Service.  In addition, they met with the Head of European Affairs for the Irish Business Employers Confederation (IBEC), Brussels office; members of the Office of the Northern Ireland Executive in Brussels; and policy assistants to Irish MEPs.  The highlight of the event was a Reception hosted by Ambassador Rory Montgomery, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the EU.