Ideas, insights and experiences are shared on major issues of national concern, raised by the diverse network of organisations or by the Bishops’ Conference.

These conferences are followed by regional meetings in the north, midlands and south, so that a summary and recommendation can be compliled for the Bishops’ Conference as one of its consultative bodies.

The Council fosters co-operation between member associations to strengthen their apostolate, is a member of the European Forum of National Laity Committees and has links with the Pontifical Council for Laity.