merrion street

The Minister for the Diaspora and International Development, Joe McHugh T.D. is on a two-day visit to London to discuss key issues of interest, including Brexit, with members of the Irish community and Irish organisations in the city.

Last night, Minister McHugh attended the Ireland Fund of Great Britain Awards event recognising the work of Irish Heritage.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said:

“It is wonderful to see the continued success of the Ireland Fund here in Britain, and to recognise the invaluable work that you have been doing for many years in supporting our Irish community and Irish organisations here in Britain”.

"Ireland greatly values our dynamic diaspora, whose energy, expertise and experience has done much to build Ireland’s reach and reputation in the world. It has built strong, familial connections across the globe, not least with our nearest neighbour. In today’s world, where change and uncertainty appear to be the order of the day, our commitment to the Irish abroad remains steadfast.”

Minister McHugh is visiting Irish community organisations supported by the Government’s Emigrant Support Programme, including the representative body for the Irish community across Britain, Irish in Britain, and the Southwark Irish Pensioners Project in south London. Minister McHugh will visit the rebuilt Irish Cultural Centre, in Hammersmith, in the final stage of its redevelopment.

During his visit, Minister McHugh is meeting representatives of the Irish community to discuss a range of issues including those arising from the UK’s decision to leave the EU. This ongoing consultation is a valuable part of the Government’s ongoing consultations with Irish citizens who will be impacted by this decision.