The Irish government's new diaspora strategy has been launched in New York.
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond attended the U.S. launch of the Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 at Ireland House in Manhattan.
According to a release, Ireland’s third diaspora strategy provides a roadmap for the next chapter of deepening ties between Ireland and the Irish abroad. T
The strategy is the result of the largest ever consultation with the Irish diaspora, which included over 27 in-person meetings, five of which were held in the U.S., and the first ever online consultation, the Global Irish Survey, which ran throughout the summer of 2025.
Speaking after the launch in New York, Minister Richmond said: “Our new strategy is the culmination of thousands of conversations around the world, including a high level of engagement with the Irish in the U.S.
"It was fitting to launch the strategy in New York, a city with deep Irish roots. The government remains committed to engaging with and supporting Irish people overseas. I look forward to meeting with many of our Irish community partners in New York and Washington DC throughout this week.”
Noting the changing nature of the Irish diaspora in the U.S., the minister remarked: “We recognise that many Irish centres in the U.S. are operating in complex circumstances. We will continue working with our partner organisations, so that the most vulnerable in our communities are supported.
“With emigration patterns shifting, it is vital that we adapt our engagement with younger generations. Whether newly arrived Irish citizens, or 2nd, 3rd or 4th generation diaspora, the next generation of leaders will be central in sustaining vibrant communities and maintaining the connection to Ireland in the years ahead.”
Highlighting some of the key priorities of the new strategy, the minister noted: “In my conversations across the world, I witnessed the appetite among the diaspora to help Ireland in advancing our trade and diplomatic agenda. We will invest further in these vital relationships and harness the invaluable connections, expertise and insights that have been offered to us.
“We also recognise the administrative hurdles people may face when they wish to return to Ireland and we remain committed to providing clear, accurate and accessible information to reduce the barriers some may face.”
