Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Helen McEntee TD and Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond TD have announced that €16.4 million in Emigrant Support Programme (ESP) funding was distributed to more than 530 projects worldwide in 2025, reinforcing Ireland’s commitment to its global diaspora.
The ESP, established in 2004, supports Irish community organisations abroad and strengthens connections with citizens and groups overseas. Since its inception, the programme has provided over €265 million to almost 900 voluntary organisations across 51 countries, backing initiatives that promote welfare, culture, heritage, education and community development.
In 2025, the programme placed particular emphasis on frontline welfare services, targeting support towards the most vulnerable and marginalised members of the Irish diaspora. Funding also bolstered sporting, cultural and heritage projects, as well as network‑building and Irish studies initiatives that help sustain vibrant Irish communities abroad.
Minister McEntee said strong overseas communities play a vital role in promoting Ireland internationally, praising the volunteers and staff who deliver essential supports “often in challenging environments.” She added that the Government will continue to back welfare, cultural and sporting organisations that help alleviate isolation and maintain a tangible link to home. McEntee also noted her intention to deepen engagement with Irish communities across the EU ahead of Ireland assuming the EU Presidency in late 2026.
Minister Richmond highlighted ongoing efforts to assist those returning to Ireland, pointing to ESP‑supported organisations such as Safe Home Ireland and Crosscare, as well as the Returning to Ireland Portal on citizensinformation.ie. He also referenced initiatives like Back for Business, which supports returning entrepreneurs, and confirmed discussions with the State of New York on a potential driving licence exchange agreement.
Richmond further emphasised the extensive engagement undertaken in developing Ireland’s new diaspora strategy for 2026–2031, including 30 in‑person consultations worldwide and the first Global Irish Survey, which received more than 10,000 responses. He said the new strategy will reflect the opportunities and challenges identified by Irish communities abroad and ensure Ireland’s relationship with its diaspora remains responsive and dynamic.
Work on the updated diaspora strategy is continuing ahead of its launch next year.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD Picture on Wikipedia by Bundesministerium für Europa, Integration und Äußeres
