Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Global Irish Network, comprising more than 300 of the most influential Irish and Irish-connected people in almost 40 countries, was established in 2010 following a recommendation of the first Global Irish Economic Forum held in Farmleigh in September 2009.

This network was established at a time when the country was in crisis and our international reputation had been severely damaged. The work of the network has been important in restoring the trust in our reputation necessary for a small open economy to compete in international markets. The Taoiseach and I communicate regularly with network members to keep them informed of developments in the economy and other topical issues in Ireland to enable them to speak knowledgeably on the progress that has been made.

Since its establishment, most members of the network have participated in the forums held in 2011 and 2013, both of which had a strong focus on economic recovery, reputation and job creation. Network members give their time to attend the forum and travel here at their own expense. Many of the outcomes from these forums have been included in the Action Plans for Jobs - the 2014 plan, for example, includes the year of Irish design in 2015, the placement of origin green ambassadors in overseas companies and smart ageing initiatives. No date has yet been set for a fourth forum.

Network members are involved with our embassies and the State agencies in the preparation and execution of high level visits, trade missions and St. Patrick's Day events around the globe. In addition, a number of regional or sectoral Global Irish Network meetings have been held internationally, including in London, Paris, Singapore, New York, Berlin and, most recently, San Francisco during the Taoiseach's visit there last month. These meetings allow the participants to work together as a network and to share with each other and with the Government their thoughts and ideas across a wide range of areas.

One innovation of the last Global Irish Economic Forum was the holding of regional network events around Ireland in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland and third level institutions. These events in Cork, Galway and Belfast were considered a huge success by network members, Enterprise Ireland clients and the local participants at each venue. In addition, in parallel with the forum, a mentoring event was organised by Enterprise Ireland and my Department, bringing network members together with Irish SMEs to share experience and expertise.

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