Top minds come together to boost Ireland's image abroad

A formal network of top minds from the Irish diaspora was launched today to help kick-start the economy and boost Ireland’s image abroad.

The Global Irish Network brings together 280 influential business and cultural figures with Irish links.

It was first mooted at a major weekend conference for the diaspora organised by the Government last year at Farmleigh Estate in Dublin.

Delegates included major business figures like billionaire financier and Celtic FC backer Dermot Desmond, management guru Sir Gerry Robinson and former Intel chief Craig Barrett, as well as anti-poverty campaigner Bob Geldof.

Micheal Martin, Foreign Affairs Minister, said the network members reflected the diversity of experience and achievement in the global Irish community.

“The Global Irish Network brings together for the first time some 280 individuals from different regions and different sectors, who all share a strong connection to Ireland,” Mr Martin said.

“(They) have a record of high achievement in international business or have assisted in the promotion of Ireland abroad through their prominence in the cultural or sporting worlds.”

Mr Martin chaired the first meeting of the British-based members of the Network, including former European Commissioner and Attorney General Peter Sutherland and footballer Niall Quinn.

The minister said he would be organising a series of regional meetings with global members shortly.

“I look forward to working closely with network members whose diversity of experience and achievement reflects the vibrancy of the global Irish and their strong sense of ingenuity, ambition and imagination,” Mr Martin added.

The Global Irish Network was promised at an economic forum at Farmleigh last September attended by top achieving members of the Irish diaspora.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen and members of the Cabinet were also present.

The Network will help promote Ireland’s economic, cultural and tourism interests.

It will be managed and coordinated by Department of Foreign Affairs officials with Ambassadors directing and organising the members based in their respective countries.