SGI Europe addresses the Informal meeting of Employment and Social Affairs Ministers under the Irish Presidency

On 5-6 July 2026, SGI Europe addressed the Informal meeting of Employment and Social Affairs Ministers (EPSCO) of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, bringing together Member States, the European Commission, and social partners. The meeting focused on key social policy challenges, including “Addressing and preventing poverty across the lifecycle”, “Effective Enforcement in a Changing World of Work - supervisory system for employment, labour inspection and the protection of workers” and “Addressing the disability employment gap for a more inclusive and competitive EU”.

The setting of the meeting also strongly reflected this message. Hosted in a high school, the informal EPSCO paid tribute to one of the most fundamental SGIs: education. Commenting on this setting, Valeria Ronzitti, SGI Europe General Secretary, stated:

“Meeting in Ballina, County Mayo, is perfectly in line with the Freedom to Stay agenda. This vibrant rural community shows that the Freedom to Stay can become a reality when public authorities, social partners, enterprises and local actors work together to make it happen. Hosting these discussions in a school makes the message even stronger: there can be no Freedom to Stay without schools, and without the services of general interest that our members deliver every day across Europe.”

During the discussions on the disability employment gap for a more inclusive and competitive EU, Valeria Ronzitti also highlighted the importance of implementation and practical support for employers:

“The challenge today is about implementation. The example of reasonable accommodation illustrates this well. The principle is broadly accepted. But employers do not always have the expertise to assess needs, identify appropriate adaptations or navigate support schemes.”

“Recruitment strategies are not enough to address employment gaps. Successful inclusion often depends on continued support after recruitment. Employers report better outcomes when employment services, healthcare professionals, rehabilitation providers and employers remain connected and can intervene quickly when difficulties arise. This is particularly important for persons with psychosocial disabilities or complex support needs.”