Australia and New Zealand represented at Global Irish Civic Forum

The Irish in Australia and New Zealand were ably represented at the first Global Irish Civic Forum which took place at Dublin Castle on 3 – 4 June.

Marion O’Hagan from the Irish Australian Support and Resource Bureau in Melbourne and Joe Thompson from the Irish Australian Support Association Queensland were panellists at the two day event. The Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce was also represented.

Denise Flanagan, Honorary Irish Vice Consul from Auckland, spoke on ‘Reaching out to Irish citizens abroad’ and Marty Kavanagh, Irish Honorary Consul to Western Australia, moderated a session on ‘Assisting emigrants returning to Ireland’.

The first ever Forum saw almost 200 representatives of over 140 organisations working with the Irish diaspora gather to share their experience. Among the diverse organisations represented at the conference are those which provide support to vulnerable emigrants; those which promote Irish culture abroad; Irish-focused business networks and campaign groups for emigrants.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charlie Flanagan, took the opportunity to highlight the opportunities for returning migrants during his address to the Forum on 4 June:

“We have a strengthening economy with a growing SME sector and we are home to an impressive range of multinational companies whose names are recognisable all over the world. Above all, we have a thriving start up sector which accounts for two thirds of all new jobs created. Jobseekers can now look to the future with hope and optimism. There are now new opportunities for Irish emigrants who wish to return home.

"The huge wave of emigration that occurred when our economy crashed was a source of significant heartache to our entire country. We want those people to come home – to live, to work, to raise their families, to be part of communities, to be part of Irish society, to enrich our country with their experiences overseas, to be part of the new Ireland where we have vowed that never again will we allow our economy and the livelihoods of our people to be exposed to such risk and vulnerability.”

Minister Flanagan also thanked those present for their support to the Irish diaspora over the years:

“I want to pay tribute to all of you for your work in assisting emigrants. I have been inspired by your passion for your work and your commitment to Irish emigrants which is demonstrated in so many different ways whether it’s providing companionship to the elderly, teaching children our Gaelic traditions in sport, dance or music or offering mentorship in business. The work that you all do and the people that you represent are vitally important to the Government. We are pleased to support many of your organisations through the Emigrant Support Programme and also through our Embassies and Consulates around the world. Your work extends the reach of our network and ensures that Irish people around the world can make the best possible lives for themselves in their new homes.”