We are one of the few Irish industry representative associations to have a full-time presence at the heart of European legislation decision making. We are part of a strong alliance of European farm and co-operative organisations, working strategically and effectively to deliver the best outcomes for our members. ICOS plays an important role alongside other EU co-operative organisations in promoting the vital contribution which co-operatives make to rural communities in our respective countries. We reflect the core ethos of the co-operative movement in our communications and lobbying with senior policy makers in the key EU institutions.

In 2023 is the 50^th anniversary of the opening of the ICOS Brussels office. Former RTE broadcaster Damien O’Reilly is the current ICOS EU Affairs manager working in our Brussels office.