Leitrim Diaspora

Rooted in Leitrim, Growing Global Connections: Leitrim’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 sets out a programme of initiatives designed to encourage people with Leitrim connections to visit the county, collaborate with local communities, support enterprise and participate in Leitrim’s cultural life. 

The strategy adopts a broad definition of the Leitrim diaspora, including people born in the county, those with family or ancestral roots in Leitrim, former residents and people who have developed a strong personal connection with the county.

Leitrim Diaspora Gateway 

A key element of Leitrim’s Diaspora Strategy is the Leitrim Diaspora Gateway, an online directory containing genealogy and heritage resources, as well as information on tourism destinations, cultural events, county development initiatives and engagement opportunities.

The Gateway is intended for people living abroad, those who have returned to Ireland and anyone exploring a family, ancestral or personal connection with Leitrim.  

The four strategic pillars of the strategy are: 

1. Tourism and Placemaking Strengthening diaspora connections through heritage tourism, storytelling, cultural experiences and opportunities to reconnect with Leitrim as a place of belonging.
2. Community Engagement and Cultural Events Building stronger relationships through arts, culture, sport, storytelling and community-based initiatives that celebrate Leitrim identity across the world.
3. Economic Development and Enterprise Encouraging diaspora involvement in economic growth through investment, mentorship, entrepreneurship, networking and the sharing of expertise and experience. 
4. Family, Heritage and Connection Honouring family roots, ancestry and heritage while creating opportunities for people with Leitrim connections to strengthen emotional and cultural ties to the county.

The strategy's tourism pillar includes proposals for interactive heritage trails, digital storytelling and ‘Return to Leitrim’ itineraries combining genealogy sessions, local attractions and cultural events. The Visit Leitrim app – launched in 2026 by Leitrim County Council – will also support diaspora visitors by providing up-to-date information on accommodation, restaurants, activities, attractions and events.

Cultural proposals include a Leitrim Arts Diaspora Residency, a Global Leitrim Arts Network and a storytelling series exploring the county’s identity and its connections around the world.  The strategy also proposes initiatives involving Leitrim GAA and other sporting associations with the aim of building links between local clubs, diaspora athletes and supporters.

Economic measures include a Leitrim Diaspora Mentorship Programme, a Diaspora Ambassador Programme and further development of the Leitrim Global Business Network, established in 2025 to connect Leitrim-based enterprises with diaspora professionals and entrepreneurs while supporting mentoring, knowledge exchange, market access and potential investment.

Family and heritage initiatives include the Margaret of New Orleans Diaspora Award, which will recognise outstanding contributions by a member of the Leitrim diaspora. The strategy was launched at Margaret's Cottage in Tully, Carrigallen, birthplace of Margaret Haughery, one of Leitrim's most celebrated emigrants. The location provided a fitting backdrop for the event, symbolising the enduring connections between County Leitrim and its diaspora around the world.

The choice of venue for the official launch of Leitrim's Diaspora Strategy honoured both the county's rich diaspora heritage and the ambitions of Ireland's national diaspora policy, which seeks to foster stronger connections, greater collaboration and a lasting sense of belonging among Irish communities across the globe.