Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 October 2018
38. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the progress made to date since the publication of the report on challenges being faced by returning Irish emigrants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40302/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Inter-Departmental Committee on the Irish Abroad, works to facilitate a whole of Government response to issues affecting Irish people abroad, as well as those who seek to return to Ireland to work or study. On foot of the work of this Committee, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade commissioned the independent economic report on difficulties experienced by Irish people returning home. The report has proposed measures to address difficulties in areas that fall under the responsibility of different Departments. Through the Committee, all Departments have been asked to report on progress in relation to the recommendations relevant to them.
Good progress has been made in addressing the recommendations contained within the report and Government considered and noted this on 25 July 2018. Government also directed that a further update would be brought to Government in the Autumn.
The Government has committed to making it as easy as possible for Irish emigrants to return home. Reducing barriers to returning emigrants has important implications for national competitiveness; and in a growing Irish economy facilitating the return of skills will be of importance in sustaining economic growth and will support the development of both indigenous and foreign internationally traded investment.
