Cathy Bennett (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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196. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his proposals to provide more effective services to and build relationships with the diaspora; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15504/25]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The Government remains committed to supporting Irish people abroad and maintaining strong relationships with the Irish diaspora.

Our current diaspora strategy expires at the end of this year. In line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, work is already underway to develop a new Diaspora Strategy. This will include an extensive consultation process to hear the views of Irish communities overseas and key stakeholders both at home and abroad.

The primary tool for the implementation of the Strategy is the Emigrant Support Programme, which, since its establishment in 20024, has seen more than €250 million in grants awarded to 850 charitable and Irish community organisations in 51 countries.

In 2025, €16,493,000 will be granted in support of strengthening ties with the diaspora and our communities overseas.

The majority of the funding - some 60% - is granted to frontline welfare service providers working with elderly Irish emigrants, and others who are marginalised. We fund counselling and outreach services, and projects that address social isolation and actively improve the wellbeing of Irish people.

We also support groups working with members of the travelling community and survivors of institutional abuse. In the US, we work with communities and the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centres to support those impacted by changes in immigration policy.

In addition to our vital community care work, the Emigrant Support Programme also supports initiatives that promote ties to Ireland, assist newly arrived immigrants, nurture our culture and heritage and deepen sporting, trade and education links.

All of these programmes makes a real difference every day.

The Interdepartmental Committee on the Irish Abroad coordinates and oversees the implementation of diaspora policy. The Committee also focusses on supporting Irish people abroad who wish to return to Ireland.

As Chair of the Committee, I will drive work across Government to ensure our relationship with the global Irish is a dynamic one that responds to their needs.