The Global Irish Civic Forum takes place this week on June 3–4 in Dublin Castle. Representatives from Irish civil society groups across the globe will come together to share knowledge and discuss the common challenges that face our global community.
You can join in the discussion on twitter by using the hashtags #GlobalIrish and #Diaspora15 – Follow Irish in Britain here
The Global Irish Civic Forum follows a commitment set out in the Governments ‘Global Irish: Ireland’s Diaspora Policy’ which proposed holding an event which for the first time ever would bring together groups working with our diaspora abroad to facilitate the sharing of ideas. Irish in Britain first called for such an event in our Giving and Getting report and we fully support the work done to make this event possible.
Registration has closed with 175 delegates from 17 countries attending. Amongst the participants are welfare organisations working with our most vulnerable emigrants, organisations aimed at promoting Irish culture abroad, Irish–focused business networks and campaign groups for emigrants.
Recordings of the proceedings will be uploaded to this DFA webpage over the course of the conference.
Schedule for the Forum
Wednesday 3 June
09.30 – 10.00 Welcome Address by Minister for Diaspora Affairs Jimmy Deenihan T.D.
10.00 – 11.30 Panel Discussion on challenges facing new Irish emigrants
12.00 – 13.30 Panel Discussion on Irish Identity and Heritage
14.30 – 16.00 Panel Discussion on reaching out to Irish citizens abroad
16.15 – 17.45 Panel Discussion on supporting the mental wellbeing of Irish emigrants
Thursday 4 June
09.00 – 09.20 Address by Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade, Charles Flanagan T.D.
09.30 – 11.00 Panel Discussion on assisting emigrants returning to Ireland
11.30 – 12.30 Interactive Session on Networking led by Kingsley Aikins
12.30 – 13.15 Presentation by John Concannon Director of the Ireland 2016 Project Team
18.15 – 18.30 Closing Remarks by Minister for Diaspora Affairs Jimmy Deenihan T.D.