Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The Government remains strongly committed to supporting Irish diaspora communities all over the world, in line with its Global Ireland: Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2020-2025.

The most tangible expression of that support is through the Emigrant Support Programme, administered by my Department, which this year will see the disbursement of almost €16 million in direct grant aid to Irish community organisations all over the world.

In addition, the Government also supports Irish-based organisations working in this area through the Department of Foreign Affairs' Diaspora Affairs Fund, which has a budget this year of €1 million and which, if doubled for 2024, would rise to €2 million.

Amongst the projects supported by the Diaspora Affairs Fund are:

- the provision by the Citizens Information Board of advice and support to those seeking to return to Ireland;

- the Back for Business entrepreneurship development programme for returning emigrants;

- the funding of a Historian-in-Residence in the EPIC Emigration Museum and the development of diaspora-related exhibitions.

The Government will continue to support our diaspora communities and the organisations which work with them.