TÁNAISTE Micheál Martin has formally opened a new Ireland House in New York.
The Consulate General of Ireland in New York, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Tourism Ireland, CIE Tours and The Ireland Funds organisation are all now based under its roof.
Located on the 17th floor of the iconic MetLife building at 200 Park Avenue in midtown Manhattan, Ireland House New York replaces the previous premises of the city’s consul General of Ireland, which was located at 345 Park Avenue for over 30 years.
“Global Ireland 2025, the Government’s strategy to increase Ireland’s Global impact, contains a commitment to launch a new flagship Ireland House in New York,” Mr Martin said as he opened the new premises in Manhattan.
“I am truly delighted to open Ireland House New York, and fulfil that commitment, collocating Ireland’s diplomatic missions, our State Agencies, and other key partners, in one premises,” he added.
“This wonderful facility will contribute significantly to Team Ireland’s ability to work together effectively as we engage with key partner countries, Irish, diaspora and other communities, and key markets.
“I have no doubt that Ireland House New York will serve us well in the years ahead as a hub for diplomacy, trade, business, tourism; promoting Irish food and culture and ensure we can maximise our collective impact in New York.
“I know this location, and its outstanding Team Ireland staff and agencies, will deepen the close and dynamic relationship Ireland has with the city of New York, the region and the United States as a whole.”
During the opening ceremony, the Tánaiste also announced €4.5m in funding for more than 140 organisations in the US from the Irish Government’s Emigrant Support Programme.
“I value the partnership we have with our diaspora organisations and the role they play in strengthening the ties between Ireland and their local communities,” Mr Martin said.
“I am delighted to announce that we have allocated €4.5m (US$4.8m) in grant funding to support the work of over 140 organisations throughout the United States,” he added.
“The funding will allow them to continue to supply vital services to out most vulnerable emigrants and to promoting Irish heritage.
“I also know that many of these organisations rely on committed staff and volunteers to deliver their important programmes.
“I have met many of the teams over the years and their dedication and resolve is always inspiring.”
There are currently 20 Ireland Houses worldwide – in Abu Dhabi, Atlanta, Austin, Beijing, Budapest, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mumbai, New York, Prague, Riyadh, San Francisco, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo and Warsaw.
A new Ireland House premises is curretly under construction in Tokyo, which is expected to be complete in 2025.
A new Ireland House is also in the planning stages in Madrid, while new offerings were also recently developed in Singapore, Shanghai and Stockholm
The first ever Ireland House in Chicago is now under construction, with expected completion in early 2025, while further new locations planned for Toronto and Milan are due to be finished the following year.