201. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade which of the 23 commitments in Ireland's Diaspora Strategy 2026 to 2030 relate to access to housing for Irish citizens returning to the State; if the Department or the Minister of State for international development and the diaspora has engaged with the Department of Finance or the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a housing or tax support for returning emigrants; if so, the outcome of any such engagement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74325/26]

Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 sets out 23 commitments across five interconnected threads: wellbeing and advocacy; identity and culture; connection and contribution; departure and return; and sharing our experience. The drafting of the strategy followed a year-long consultation of the Irish abroad, with 27 meetings in 17 countries, which were complemented by the first ever online survey of our diaspora, the Global Irish Survey, which received almost 10,000 responses.

The Strategy recognises that many returning emigrants can face practical challenges on their return to the State and, in line with the Programme for Government, commits to facilitating their return including through addressing administrative challenges and improving access to information and supports.

I am conscious that issues relating to housing can impact on someone's decision to return to Ireland. In responding to those who raised this with me directly during the consultations, I noted that housing, among other matters, are not just of concern to the diaspora but also affect people living in Ireland. Addressing them is a key priority for the Government and this work will go on outside of the diaspora strategy. This approach is reflected in the Diaspora Strategy (on page 6 and page 12).

I have not had any discussion with the Department of Finance or the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a housing or tax support for returning emigrants.

The Government values the contribution of returning emigrants, who bring with them skills, experience and international perspectives that benefit Irish society and the economy, and remains committed to supporting their successful reintegration into life in Ireland should they choose to return.