IRISH people across the world have played a “major role” in Ireland’s economic recovery, according to Minister for the Diaspora Jimmy Deenihan.
Speaking at the Global Diaspora and Development Forum in Dublin on Friday, October 31, Mr Deenihan said the country was “on a pathway to recovery” and that the Diaspora “played a major role in helping us to make that recovery”.
He added: “We suffered considerable reputational damage because of the collapse of our banking system and the collapse of our economy, and it was people in places like Manhattan and around the world where huge decisions had to be made who were key figures in repairing our image abroad.”
The Minister also highlighted the valuable work of The Global Irish Economic Network, comprised of over 350 senior Irish and Irish-connected business people from around the world.
Former US president Bill Clinton addressed the weekend conference via video link, where he claimed Diasporas are becoming more and more important “in our interdependent and increasingly complex world”.
He added: “Our borders seem to look more like nets than walls, and our ability to connect with people half a world away is greater than ever.
“From advancing gender equality to promoting volunteerism, Diasporas can drive a positive and enduring change.”
Among topics discussed at the two-day conference, the engagement of Women and Youth in the Diaspora and the role of Media and Communication both featured in the bustling line up.
