Global Irish Economic Forum to bring diaspora together

They will be joined at Farmleigh by the taoiseach and members of the Cabinet. The leaders of the opposition have also been invited, as have a number of leading Irish-based business figures.

A website for the event has also now been launched -- www.globalirishforum.ie. This site will include detailed information for those participating at Farmleigh and about the event itself. 

It’s worth checking the website regularly as it will also carry links to streamed coverage of the keynote speech by the taoiseach and a debate on links with the diaspora, as well as reactions and interviews with participants. 

The forum is first and foremost a national effort of outreach to and engagement with our diaspora. Its primary purpose will be to explore how the Irish, at home and abroad, and those with a strong interest in Ireland, can work together and contribute to our overall efforts at economic recovery.

It also provides a unique opportunity for Ireland to establish a new global Irish network made up of those present, and others, to take forward some of the initiatives that may emerge from the forum.

Never before has Ireland brought together, in one place, such a truly global network of business talents. A group of 70 million people spread throughout the world is by its nature diverse and complex.   The enormous range in culture, outlook and experience between and among our communities abroad is amply illustrated by the group that is coming together in Dublin.

In spite of this great dispersion, certain common threads are clearly evident. Something undeniable in the Irish identity pushes us closer and creates a need to connect and come together. 

A deep appreciation of the emigrant experience and an affinity with a sense of Irishness -- however that is interpreted -- are defining characteristics of the global Irish family. This gathering is testament to this fact.

The Department of Foreign Affairs will prepare the official report of the forum which will incorporate the ideas that emerge over the course of the two days. The report will be presented to the government for consideration and appropriate action.

Reaching out to the diaspora and seeking support for Ireland’s economic development is an ongoing process.  The government already has a very strong record of delivery in this area. 

Government and state agencies have sought to build on Irish connections in attracting investment here; readers will know that the Emigrant Support Program has provided over €60million over the past six years to projects and groups around the world, building on the extraordinary work of our community. 

Enterprise Ireland, with the assistance of our Embassies, currently supports over 60 Irish business networks worldwide, comprising some 30,000 members.

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Nster.com