By John Harrington

The GAA has welcomed the Government’s approvement of a new Diaspora Strategy for the period 2020-2025.

The Strategy sets out what the Government will do over the next five years to support and engage with our diaspora communities around the world and one of the stated goals is the continued development of Gaelic games internationally and the engagement of the diaspora in Irish sporting events.

“The Diaspora Strategy launched by the Department of Foreign Affairs is a further step supporting the Irish Communities across the Globe,” says the GAA’s International Officer, Áine Gibney.

“The Covid-19 global pandemic has had a profound impact on all Communities world-wide.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs who are in partnership with the GAA will continue to work hand in hand to support Irish Communities and offer support for people through the medium of Gaelic Games.”

Since 2013 through the Global Games Development Fund, the GAA and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have provided financial support for development projects and initiatives in GAA Clubs and units across Asia, Australasia, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South America.

The fund provides financial support specifically for projects and initiatives that increase or improve opportunities for the Irish Diaspora and other communities abroad to play Gaelic Games. Through the provision of financial assistance, it is the aim of the Fund to support the Irish Diaspora and strengthen Irish networks and Irish identity internationally.

Over the past 6 years, more than 450 projects have received funding through the Global games Development Fund. The projects are varied and reflect the needs of the Irish Diaspora and GAA in particular areas or regions. Some projects have been one-off-events, others have activities lasting the course of a year. All applications have been inspirational and beneficial to the Clubs.