As set out in ‘Global Irish – Ireland’s Diaspora Policy’ the first Global Irish Civic Forum will take place in Dublin Castle on 3–4 June 2015. This will be an opportunity for organisations supporting the Irish diaspora abroad to come to Dublin to discuss their work with these communities. Set out below is the draft programme for the Global Irish Civic Forum. This will be updated over the coming weeks as further elements are confirmed.
Irish in Britain first called for a Global Civic Forum back in August 2014 and as such we would encourage any interested parties to attend this event. It will be an unparalleled opportunity to make contacts, grow your profile and learn from the leaders in our field. In advance of registration closing on May 13 Irish in Britain is planning on holding a meeting in central London on the evening of May 12. Details will be confirmed soon but we would encourage all organisations that intend to be represented to come along, and if you cannot attend the forum we may be able to bring issues raised at our meeting to the floor of the event.
Registration is now open for this event. Attendance at the Civic Forum is open to all organisations working with Irish communities abroad. In many cases these organisations also receive funding under the Irish Government’s Emigrant Support Programme.
Participants are requested to email Catherine Carey (catherine.carey@ucd.ie) with their name and organisation details by Wednesday 13 May to confirm attendance.
Draft Programme for Global Irish Civic Forum
Dublin Castle, 3–4 June
Wednesday 3 June
09.00 – 19.30
Registration
Welcome Address by Minister for Diaspora Affairs Jimmy Deenihan T.D.
Panel Discussion on the experience of recent Irish emigrants abroad
Panel Discussion on Irish Identity and Heritage
Panel Discussion on reaching out to Irish citizens abroad
Panel Discussion on supporting the mental wellbeing of Irish emigrants
Networking Reception
Thursday 4 June
09.00–18.00
Address by Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade Charlie Flanagan T.D.
Interactive Session on Networking led by Kingsley Aikins, Diaspora Matters
Panel Discussion on assisting emigrants returning to Ireland
Afternoon Workshops for Irish community organisations (e.g. fundraising, communication strategies and governance issues)
Closing Remarks by Minister for Diaspora Affairs Jimmy Deenihan T.D.