Through our diplomats, our peacekeepers, our culture and our agencies, Ireland has a huge impact internationally. We trade with countries around the globe, members of our Defence Forces help keep people safe in some of the world’s most worn torn regions and through more than 80 embassies and consulates we represent Ireland overseas and help Irish people no matter where they are on the planet.
Through our ambitious Global Ireland programme, the Government is committed to doubling our footprint overseas. No nation can hope to meet the challenges facing the globe on its own or without cooperating with other countries. Migration, climate change, armed conflict and hunger do not carry passports or recognise international borders. Through the Global Ireland initiative we are expanding our presence internationally and increasing our investment and development assistance for some of the world’s poorest countries.
It is my hope that the Global Schools programme can inspire Ireland’s next generation of ambassadors, peacekeepers, aid workers and diplomats. Today’s secondary school students are the next generation of world leaders and I think it’s really important that they learn about our work overseas, as well as Ireland’s place in the world.
Vice Admiral Mark Mellett DSM, Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces said:
Ireland has a proud history of UN service and Global Schools is a valuable initiative in helping build understanding with our young people about Ireland’s international role, and our ambition to double Ireland’s impact around the world through the Global Ireland programme.
Global Schools:
The Global Schools programme, which will run throughout 2019 and will be available to all second level schools, will see Irish diplomats, accompanied by members of the Defence Forces who have served with the United Nations, visiting schools across the country to meet with students to explain the Global Ireland programme and to present each school with a UN flag and a copy of the preamble of the UN Charter.
Global Ireland:
'Global Ireland – Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025', the Government’s initiative to double the scope and impact of Ireland’s global footprint in the period to 2025. It represents the most ambitious renewal and expansion of Ireland’s international presence ever undertaken in terms of diplomacy, culture, business, overseas aid, tourism and trade.