In a message on the most recent Global Irish Newsletter, Minister of State for the Diaspora and International Development, Ciarán Cannon TD assured the Irish Diaspora that the government is working very hard to support them with their various needs during the Covid-19 crisis. Some people need help to get back to Ireland at this time and some are being supported in the work they are doing in their own communities abroad, working with vulnerable people at this time.
“I want to assure you that although you are abroad, you still are in our thoughts as we collectively fight against this pandemic” says Minister Cannon in his message. There is information about how the Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad have re-doubled their efforts to offer additional support to Irish citizens in their areas. Likewise, some initiatives are identified including one that Ireland Reaching Out developed called “Children’s Family Tree”. This allows children to connect with their Irish heritage and understand their history. It provides an opportunity for families self-isolating at home to explore their genealogy and bring them into contact with their extended family members in Ireland.
The text of Minister Cannon’s message can be accessed HERE and below is the audio of an interview that the minister conducted with Ger Sweeney about the statement and what exactly his role involves.