Tánaiste and Minister Richmond announce €4.6 million to support Irish diaspora in the US and Canada

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris TD, and Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, have announced grants of over €4.6 million to Irish diaspora organisations in the US and Canada.

Speaking at an Irish community event in Ireland House New York, the Tánaiste said:

“I am delighted to announce this year’s US Emigrant Support Programme grants which will see over €4 million funding allocated to 145 Irish organisations through the Emigrant Support Programme. This funding will assist them to deliver vital services, particularly to our most vulnerable emigrants. It will also support projects that nurture our heritage, allowing us to deepen ties with new generations of Irish and Irish-Americans.

“Each year, the Emigrant Support Programme reaffirms the Government’s dedication to supporting vibrant and sustainable Irish communities overseas. This funding recognises the significant contribution of our diaspora in strengthening political, cultural and economic relationships across North America.

“I want to take this opportunity to express my continued gratitude to the Irish community across in the US and Canada for their work and the meaningful impact it has.

“I am also pleased that we could support first time applicants from places such as Louisiana, Delaware, Baltimore and Nevada. These new partnerships with Irish communities are a tangible result of the expansion of our diplomatic network across the US, a key objective of the Global Ireland strategy.”

Minster Richmond said:

“The Government is committed to building closer economic ties and supporting Irish connected business organisations through the Emigrant Support Programme. Irish diaspora business networks have invaluable expertise and insights. I am committed to harnessing their knowledge in support of the Government’s trade and investment priorities.

“One of the key messages I hear in my meetings with members of the Irish community abroad is their willingness to share their experience and connections to support greater economic relationships. As part of our new diaspora strategy, we will avail of this goodwill to allow Irish businesses to thrive in strategically important locations.”

Minister Richmond was also speaking ahead of his visit to Toronto on 23-24 September and welcomed the continued Emigrant Support Programme funding for Canada. He said:

“Canada and Ireland share historical and cultural bonds. With some 15% of Canadians claiming Irish descent, I am delighted to see ESP grants of almost €480,000 allocated to 41 organisations.

“This funding will support services from Newfoundland to Vancouver, for seniors and new arrivals alike as well as cultural, sporting and business events that will enhance our already rich political, trade and people to people ties.

“I look forward to meeting many of those who will deliver these services when I visit Toronto this week as part of our global consultation on the Government’s new diaspora strategy.”