In the end of 2013，Ireland declared a “clean exit” of the bailout programme，symbolizing an upward trend of its economic growth. However，it is still facing serious challenges，especially concerning the labour market and public debt. In the political arena，the government’s initiative to abandon the Senate was vetoed by a referendum，a heavy blow to the Coalition. The passing of the Abortion Bill is undoubtedly a historic progress in protecting women’s rights，however，it has caused contentions and oppositions from some social groups. As the rotating Presidency of the Council in the first half of 2013，Ireland finished its tasks smoothly.