GRASSROOTS & Near Neighbours Programmes in Luton were honoured to join the Luton Irish Forum in welcoming Neale Richmond TD, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, to Luton for the official launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy, marking a significant moment in strengthening ties between Ireland and Irish communities across the UK.
The event brought together representatives from the Irish community, local leaders, community organisations, volunteers and stakeholders to celebrate the enduring relationship between Ireland and its diaspora.
Welcoming guests, the Luton Irish Forum highlighted the town’s proud and longstanding Irish heritage.
For generations, Irish families have made a significant contribution to Luton’s social, cultural and economic development, helping to shape the town into the vibrant and diverse community it is today.
The Luton Irish Forum has been at the heart of the local Irish community for many years. It was praised for its work in providing support, advocacy, cultural engagement and community development services, not only for the Irish community but for the wider population of Luton. It’s innovative and inclusive work, including initiatives supporting Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities and fostering cross-community engagement, was described as an example of the positive impact Irish community organisations can have in addressing social challenges while celebrating cultural identities.
Speaking at the event, Minister Richmond emphasised the importance of maintaining strong connections between Ireland and its diaspora, acknowledging the invaluable role Irish organisations play in supporting communities and preserving Irish identity, culture and heritage.
“The commitments set out in this strategy come directly from the voices of Irish communities across the world,” said Minister Richmond. “It is a platform for government and diaspora communities to work together to ensure those who emigrate have access to strong support networks while continuing to strengthen social, cultural and economic links with home.”
Minister Richmond also paid tribute to the volunteers, trustees and staff who support Irish organisations throughout Britain, recognising their vital role in keeping communities connected, supported and engaged.
During the event, community representatives welcomed the strategy’s strong alignment with work already taking place at grassroots level. Discussions held prior to the launch provided an opportunity for organisations to share their experiences and offer insights into how the strategy can continue to support Irish communities throughout the UK.
The Minister also highlighted the Irish Government’s continued commitment to supporting overseas Irish communities through its Emigrant Support Programme, which this year reached a record investment of over €8 million.
The event concluded with a musical tribute celebrating the experiences of Irish emigrants who settled in Britain during the 1950s and 1960s, reflecting on the resilience, contributions and cultural legacy of generations of Irish families who made their homes abroad.
The launch reinforced the strong and enduring relationship between Ireland and its diaspora, while celebrating the contributions of Irish communities in Britain and their ongoing role in preserving and promoting Irish culture for future generations.
The Luton Irish Forum was honoured to welcome Neale Richmond TD, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, for the official launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy
Neale Richmond TD, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, speaking at the official launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy at the Luton Irish Forum.
Neale Richmond TD, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, meeting and greeting with the Luton Irish community members after the official launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy at the Luton Irish Forum.
Neale Richmond TD, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, meeting and greeting with the Luton Irish community members after the official launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy at the Luton Irish Forum.
The Luton Irish Forum Co-Chairs Tom Shanley (L) & Siobhan Rooney (R) welcomed all at the Ireland’s New Diaspora Strategy Launch event.
Noelette Hanley, CEO of Luton Irish Forum & Mayor of Luton Cllr Javed Hussain at the Ireland’s New Diaspora Strategy Launch event.