Minister announces £7.8 million for Irish communities
Minister Neale Richmond has revealed a £7.8 million funding boost for Irish community projects across Britain. The announcement, made in London, supports vital services and cultural initiatives under Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030.
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Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 2 min read
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, announced grants totalling £7.8 million (€9.1 million) during a visit to London on 29 October to support Irish communities in Britain. The funding includes £7.1 million (€8.3 million) allocated to 106 voluntary and community organisations throughout England, Scotland, and Wales, marking an increase of £521,000 compared to last year. Additionally, £0.7 million (€0.8 million) was designated for the GAA and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann to fund cultural and sporting projects.
At a reception hosted at the Embassy of Ireland in London, Minister Richmond emphasised the government’s commitment to assisting vulnerable members of the Irish diaspora and fostering vibrant communities that celebrate Irish culture and values. He highlighted that over 75% of the funding supports wellbeing and advocacy services, including frontline support, counselling, outreach, home visits, and advice for those in need.
Looking ahead, the Minister noted that Budget 2027 allocated €19.5 million to the Emigrant Support Programme, the highest amount to date and a 10% increase from the previous year. This enhanced funding will continue to support existing Irish communities, as well as newer and underrepresented groups, in line with the objectives of the Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030. Applications for the 2027/28 Emigrant Support Programme grant round will open from 9 December 2026 to 14 January 2027, with further details available on the official Ireland.ie website.
At a reception hosted at the Embassy of Ireland in London, Minister Richmond emphasised the government’s commitment to assisting vulnerable members of the Irish diaspora and fostering vibrant communities that celebrate Irish culture and values. He highlighted that over 75% of the funding supports wellbeing and advocacy services, including frontline support, counselling, outreach, home visits, and advice for those in need.
Looking ahead, the Minister noted that Budget 2027 allocated €19.5 million to the Emigrant Support Programme, the highest amount to date and a 10% increase from the previous year. This enhanced funding will continue to support existing Irish communities, as well as newer and underrepresented groups, in line with the objectives of the Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030. Applications for the 2027/28 Emigrant Support Programme grant round will open from 9 December 2026 to 14 January 2027, with further details available on the official Ireland.ie website.
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