For almost two centuries, emigration was the defining factor shaping Irish society. Over most of that time, the official attitude towards those who left was at best ambiguous, at worst neglectful or even hostile. Thankfully that has changed.
The new diaspora strategy published by the Government this week continues a focus on capitalising on Irish soft power and supporting emigrants who are experiencing difficulties. The core of the strategy remains the Emigrant Support Programme which has provided over € 265 million in grants to over 900 organisations in 53 countries since its inception in 2004.
The strategy recognises that emigration will continue to be part of the fabric of life on a small island on the periphery of Europe. Some emigrants leave out of economic necessity, others out of choice. In that regard there is a renewed emphasis on helping emigrants to leave. This may seem counterintuitive but is simply a pragmatic recognition of reality. The strategy aims to help connect emigrants with Irish networks - community organisations, immigration centres, cultural organisations, charities, sporting clubs - in their destination countries.
A strong desire to return home persists among many emigrants. The Global Irish Survey found 35 per cent of respondents wish to return, with 25 per cent not considering returning and a further 40 per cent unsure.
RM Block
The new strategy will rightly retain its focus on helping them do so. Many of the obstacles are administrative in nature, including such things as obtaining PPS numbers and the recognition of qualifications. Difficulties reported recently in exchanging US driving licences for Irish ones are just one a recent example.
These problems can be addressed. But the main barriers remain economic. The cost of living and housing are among the issues most frequently mentioned by the Irish abroad. These are the same issues that caused many to leave in the first place. Such is the pernicious nature of this centuries-old facet of Irish identity.
