Gareth Scahill (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. It is timely to have this discussion with St. Patrick's Day coming up. I will reiterate what my colleagues have said. It is often said that the Irish are a global people, with our diaspora reaching every corner of the world. This vast network of individuals, bound together by shared heritage, represent one of Ireland's greatest strengths. Supporting and seeking support from the Irish diaspora is not just about maintaining these connections; it is about fostering a sense of community that transcends these borders. The diaspora plays a vital role in promoting Ireland's culture, values and interests abroad. Their achievements in business, politics and the arts elevates Ireland's reputation on a world stage. Equally, for those at home, the diaspora offers opportunity for collaboration, investment and mentorship.By engaging with the Irish communities abroad, we create pathways for innovation, economic growth and social development. However, this relationship is a two-way street and it is our duty to support those who have left Ireland, especially in times of need, and to ensure they always feel a strong connection to their roots. Through continued dialogue, partnership and shared traditions, we can strengthen this unique bond for generations to come. I look forward to being involved in the next diaspora strategy that the Minister of State is involved with to ensure our relationship with our diaspora is a dynamic one that meets the needs of and can adapt to evolving communities.

I want to highlight a couple of things. The Gathering was an unbelievable success in bringing our diaspora back. There is a lot of as yet untapped opportunity in that particular area. In my own community, there are the O'Connors, the last high kings of Ireland. Hugh O'Connor established the first settlement in Tucson, Arizona, in 1775. There are now more than 30,000 descendants of the O'Connors in that particular area. I was speaking to a friend of mine on the Beara Peninsula, who is currently preparing for a calling of the O'Sullivans and the O'Sullivan clans. Senator Gallagher is not here at the moment, but the Gallaghers currently hold the world record for the largest gathering of people with the same surname in one location. The O'Sullivans are hoping to beat that next year. This is to highlight osullivanclan.org. They are going for a world record attempt on the Beara Peninsula, in the Cork-Kerry area, from 30 May to 2 June 2026.

As well as that, my colleague, Senator Flaherty, said that Longford was also punching above its weight in terms of its diaspora and associations internationally. I would like to recognise the Roscommon Association in London. If the Minister of State needs a delegation, there is a Connacht Championship game coming up on 5 April that I would be able to organise a delegation from Roscommon to support.