Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

93. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the work to facilitate the easier return to Ireland for emigrants, including reciprocal driving licence arrangements with the USA, Australia and Canada as committed to in the Programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42530/25]

Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Government remains committed to deepening our ties with the diaspora and ensuring there are supports in place to assist our all emigrants including those considering returning home.

Working to reduce barriers for emigrants wishing to return to Ireland is a central priority for the Interdepartmental Committee on the Irish Abroad, which I chair. The Committee consists of representatives of key government departments and Irish NGOs working with the diaspora and provides a valuable forum for addressing a number of the administrative hurdles facing returning emigrants.

In relation to driving Ireland licenses, Ireland now has 21 reciprocal driving license agreements including with Australia and seven Canadian provinces.

In the case of the US, exchange agreements have to be agreed at the State level. Preparatory work is underway ahead of engaging with US states on this matter and I am working closely with Minister O'Brien on the matter. Our focus initially will be on those states with a significant Irish population.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also funds the Returning to Ireland portal on the Citizens Information website. This site provides a wealth of useful information on the administrative aspects of returning home and I would recommend it to anyone considering moving to Ireland.