Overview- Irish Abroad Unit (IAU)
The Irish Abroad Unit remains central to Ireland’s global engagement, embracing not only citizens and those with Irish ancestry, but also members of the growing affinity diaspora. The Irish Abroad Unit leads on Ireland’s engagement with its diaspora across three main areas:
- Supporting the work of the Minister of State for the Diaspora.
- Delivery of the commitments set out in the government’s Diaspora Strategy
- Administration of the €16.5 million Emigrant Support Programme (ESP)
Key focus in 2025: Preparations for a new strategy
As the current Diaspora Strategy expires at the end of 2025, a central priority will be the development of a new Diaspora Strategy for 2026–2030. This will be shaped by consultations with Irish communities and stakeholders both in Ireland and overseas. The forthcoming strategy will focus on greater inclusion of younger and under-represented diaspora groups, as well as renewed efforts to support those returning to live in Ireland.
The strategy will be launched at the Fourth Global Irish Civic Forum in April 2026. The Forum usually takes place every two years and is attended by Irish diaspora organizations from across the world who welcome the opportunity to meet and foster connections, and share learning on supporting Irish communities abroad. The Minister of State will play a key role in facilitating the event.
Championing the needs of the Irish Abroad
The Ministerial Brief also highlights several ongoing concerns within diaspora policy:
- Undocumented Irish emigrants in the U.S. remain a priority for Government engagement.
- Voting rights for emigrants continue to surface as a consistent topic during overseas dialogues.
- Support for survivors of institutional abuse living abroad, particularly in Britain, is ongoing, with efforts focused on ensuring access to redress schemes and continued funding for survivor organisations through the ESP.
The Interdepartmental Committee on the Diaspora
The Interdepartmental Committee on the Diaspora, chaired by the Minister of State, Minister Neale Richmond, TD continues to play a key role in coordinating cross-government responses to the needs of the Irish abroad. In February 2025, Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project participated in the first meeting of the Committee with the new Minister, where we highlighted the persistent challenges facing returning Irish citizens.
Access to housing, health services, and social welfare payments remain recurring issues. While many of these challenges affect the wider population, they often create distinct difficulties for returning emigrants, particularly those arriving in crisis or without established support networks.
As Ireland prepares for a new phase in its diaspora policy, 2025 will be a year of listening, planning, and action. Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project looks forward to contributing to a strategy that reflects the diverse realities of Irish people abroad and supports their right to return home with ease.
Learn more about our diaspora-focused advocacy and support work here.
