The Irish Diaspora

Diaspora: Any groups that has been dispersed outside its original homeland. Diasporas can develop through voluntary migration or forced migration

The Irish diaspora is one of the largest diaspora in the World. It is estimated that there are about 80 million Irish migrants and their descendents living around the world - there are over 40 million in the US alone. In the UK about 10% of the population claim Irish descent which would account for about 6 million people. These totals are compared to a current Irish population of only about 4.7 million.

The reasons for Irish migration are varied. One of the largest migrations was triggered after the Great Famine during the 1840's (1 million people are believed to have migrated during the 7 year famine). Other factors may have included discrimination by the British and a lack of economic opportunities. There are now significant Irish diasporas in the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Chile, Mexico and Argentina.

Because of Irish migration, a lot of Irish culture is now known and celebrated around the world. Most major cities have at least one Irish pub, Guinness is available in nearly every country, curling and Gaelic football are played in many countries. Leprechauns and four leaf clovers are often considered to be lucky and bangers and mash is a common international dish. Irish music has also been popularised through musicians like U2 and Sinead O'Connor. Irish dancing is performed globally and many countries have St. Patrick's Day parades - New York hosts a major parade each year.

The Irish government recognises the power and size of the Irish community abroad (diaspora) and they are trying to connect with it through policy. The financial situation in Ireland has been very challenging in recent years and there has been a recent wave of emigration. style/generation-emigration/first-ever-irish- diaspora-policy-published-by-government

BENEFITS CREATED BY LARGE DIASPORA PROBLEMS CREATED BY A LARGE DIASPORA Improved economic links with different countries Increased political influence around the World Irish culture (music, food, dance, drink, etc.) has been spread around the World It has increased tourism in Ireland, both migrants visiting their homeland and foreigners interested in Irish culture An increase in revenue for Irish companies like Guinness Global support for Ireland's sporting teams (rugby, football, cricket, etc.) Possible remittances from migrants living overseas Loss of workers ("brain drain") Potentially large numbers (millions) of people who could claim Irish citizenship and move back to Ireland causing overcrowding Many wrongful claims of Irish citizenship or descendency Exploitation of Irish culture, possible dilution of Irish culture Break up of families (with improved genealogy websites it is now only becoming possible for people to trace their routes) Possible political and economic interference from people living outside the country Possible dependency on outside help e.g. remittances