Dublin, 7 October 2025 — Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris TD has welcomed increased allocations in Budget 2026 aimed at expanding Ireland’s diplomatic presence, boosting humanitarian aid, and strengthening support for Irish citizens abroad.
Expanding Ireland’s Global Footprint
Under the Global Ireland 2025 Strategy, almost €10 million will be invested in opening five new Embassies and Consulates. Three embassies — in Belgrade, Chisinau, and Sarajevo — will open this year, followed by new consulates in Malaga and Melbourne in 2026. An additional €2.5 million will reinforce Ireland’s diplomatic network in the United States and other key markets, part of a broader Market Diversification Strategy responding to global trade challenges.
Record Humanitarian and Development Aid
Ireland’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget will rise by €30 million to a record €840 million in 2026. The Tánaiste highlighted that this increase comes at a time when other donors are reducing commitments, enabling Ireland to expand humanitarian support for Gaza, Sudan, and other crisis regions.
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond TD said the record allocation would allow Ireland to intensify efforts against child malnutrition and strengthen aid in healthcare and education, while reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to global humanitarian partnerships.
Supporting Citizens and Diaspora
Budget 2026 allocates an additional €15 million to the Passport Service to meet rising demand, alongside €1 million for the Emigrant Support Programme under the Government’s new Diaspora Strategy. The Tánaiste said these measures reflect Ireland’s commitment to citizens abroad, while the Reconciliation Fund will rise to €9.5 million to support peacebuilding and cross-community initiatives on the island of Ireland.
Preparing for EU Presidency
Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne TD noted that 2026 will be a “momentous year” as Ireland assumes the EU Presidency in the second half of the year. An additional €1.3 million will fund programmes on EU enlargement and citizen engagement, reinforcing Ireland’s role at the heart of the Union.
Outlook
The Tánaiste described the measures as a strategic investment in Ireland’s global presence, balancing diplomatic expansion, humanitarian leadership, and citizen support. With record aid commitments and preparations for the EU Presidency, Budget 2026 positions Ireland to play a more visible and influential role internationally while deepening ties with its diaspora and European partners.
Source: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
