Tánaiste hosts first meeting of the Global Irish Network Advisory Group

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, T.D., chaired the inaugural meeting of the Advisory Group of the Global Irish Network this evening in Iveagh House.   

The Advisory Group consists of 19 members of the Global Irish Network representing each of the main geographic areas represented at the 2011 Forum.  They were joined by the Secretaries General of a number of Departments and by the CEOs of the main economic State Agencies. Welcoming the participants to the meeting, the Tánaiste said: 

“The Global Irish Network is a powerful demonstration of the invaluable resource that is our Diaspora.   We are fortunate that our people and friends abroad remain so deeply engaged with Irish issues and are willing to assist us in overcoming our challenges.

I established the Advisory Group to provide a platform whereby Network members can have an input into the implementation of the outcomes of the 2011 Global Irish Economic Forum and the development of the strategic direction of the Network.” 

The Advisory Group considered the future strategy for the Network and key tasks that it might undertake in the coming years.  The Group reviewed the progress to date on the outcomes of the 2011 Forum, in particular the projects closely associated with Network members such asConnectIreland, the Gathering;  and, the Global Irish Contacts programme.  

The Group was also briefed on projects being undertaken in particular regions including the expansion of the Farmleigh Fellowship Programme in Asia; the work of the Silicon Valley based Irish Technology Leadership Group; and, the Invest in Ireland Forum hosted by President Clinton in New York last February

Taoiseach Enda Kenny addressing the working dinner, welcomed the ongoing support and assistance the Global Irish Network provides to the Government:

"That members are again giving freely of their time to work with us on our priorities is proof of the commitment the Network has to Ireland.  I, and my colleagues in Government, will work to ensure that we match your commitment by continuing to progress the outcomes of the Forum and to supporting the new ideas discussed here this evening.”

Speaking after the meeting, the Tánaiste commented:

“The range of initiatives discussed this evening clearly demonstrates that the role the Diaspora can play in our economic recovery has been embraced across the whole of government.   The “asks” made of Network members since the 2011 Forum have been more substantive and specific than in the past and it is clear that they have responded in a very positive manner. These initiatives can make real and tangible contributions to our objectives of creating jobs and supporting our exporters.”

Membership of the Advisory Group of the Global Irish Network

 Two members of the Advisory Group, David Mc Williams Economist & Broadcaster and Paul O’Sullivan CEO, SingTel Optus Pty Ltd (based in Australia) were unable to attend the meeting.