Storytelling is a crucial part of Irish culture, from oral histories to our playwrights and poets. But the story of the Irish diaspora is perhaps our greatest story.
It is a tale of challenge, bravery, endurance, belonging, loyalty and family.
But it is also a story of change and discovery.
I would doubt if there is a family in Ireland who does not have its own emigration story.
My own family know this too well. In the 1950s my uncle left our shores. It was a cold time in our history with little hope. He left for the UK seeking opportunity. He is now in his 80s. Indeed, in the case of my late parents, all of their siblings moved abroad.
Centuries of transatlantic migration have resulted in vibrant Irish-American communities across the U.S. Almost 32 million people in the U.S. claim Irish heritage, some 10% of the population. Over the years, they have left an indelible mark on American life, in its culture, sport, politics and business.
On 30 April, the government launched its third Diaspora Strategy. In developing this strategy we felt that it was important to listen to the Irish abroad, understand their views and hear directly about challenges and opportunities they face.
This was why we organised the largest ever programme of consultations with our diaspora around the world.
During my first 12 months as Minister with responsibility for the diaspora, we undertook 27 formal in-person consultations in 17 countries. Our work was complemented by the online Global Irish Survey, which received over 10,000 submissions.
As part of this process, I met with our diaspora in Boston, Pennsylvania, New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Texas. It was an honour to meet so many people doing incredible work, from the leaders of Irish community organisations and cultural institutes to business leaders and entrepreneurs. Over 1,700 US-based people also took part in the Global Irish Survey.
Your insights gave me a deep appreciation of the sense of community and the bond that a shared heritage has created.
Irish communities can be found in places that one might expect, like the United States, Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, and in places that you might not think of, such as Kenya, the UAE, South Africa, and many more. Wherever they are, they represent our voice, values and culture.
So why are we renewing our Diaspora Strategy?
Well, quite simply because we need to adapt and evolve to the ever-changing world.
Our commitment to the most vulnerable of our diaspora remains unchanged. In fact, our level of support is increasing.
Funding for the Emigrant Support Programme in 2026 is the highest it has ever been at €17.5 million, and the programme will remain at the heart of our work.
There are communities within our diaspora facing significant challenges. We have, and will continue to have, a specific commitment to support survivors of institutional abuse living overseas, while also enhancing our approach to diversity and inclusion and encouraging a more proactive engagement with underrepresented and marginalised groups.
The creativity and innovation of the diaspora should always be celebrated.
Supporting cultural programmes, sporting events, Irish language classes and storytelling and creating inclusive spaces for gathering and networking are central to the delivery of this strategy. They offer an opportunity to connect with home and attract new and younger generations of the diaspora while showcasing the best of Ireland.
The need to reduce barriers facing those who wish to return is recognised in the strategy and the Programme for Government. I will continue to work across government and with the private sector to advocate on behalf of those returning. Work continues on concluding driving licence exchange agreements with key US states.
Through the Back for Business scheme, we will continue to support those returning to Ireland and looking to set up a business. Indeed, I would like to see this scheme expanded so we can help more Irish entrepreneurs return home and get going in business.
In the current geopolitical environment, the diaspora can play a hugely important role in progressing Ireland’s economic agenda on the world stage.
The government recently launched our market diversification strategy in order to reach into new and emerging markets. As a small, open economy, this access is crucially important. In my conversations across the world, I witnessed the appetite among the diaspora to help Ireland advance 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.
The Irish diaspora are a hugely important part of Ireland’s past, present, and future.
But the nature and face of that diaspora is changing. The next generation of the diaspora in the US and the wider world may face similar challenges and opportunities to those that have gone before them, but the commitment of the Irish government to the diaspora is steadfast.
I am proud to deliver this strategy that over the next five years will ensure that the story of the Irish diaspora continues to evolve.
Neale Richmond is the Irish government's Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora
