Ireland Opens New ‘Ireland House’ in Chicago as Diaspora Minister Strengthens U.S. Ties

Ireland’s Minister for the Diaspora, Neale Richmond, has embarked on a strategic visit to the United States aimed at deepening engagement with Irish communities abroad and strengthening Ireland’s global footprint.

The minister’s trip, which includes stops in San Francisco and Chicago, marks a key phase in Ireland’s efforts to shape a new Diaspora Strategy that will guide future partnerships with its citizens overseas.

During the visit, Richmond will officially open the new Ireland House in Chicago, a collaborative hub that brings together the Consulate General of Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, and IDA Ireland under one roof. The facility is designed to boost diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation between Ireland and the United States particularly in the Midwest, where Irish-American influence remains strong.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Minister Richmond described the initiative as “a celebration of Ireland’s enduring friendship with the United States” and “a new platform for trade, innovation, and cultural exchange.”

The minister is also scheduled to unveil a commemorative plaque honouring Irish nationalist Roger Casement on San Francisco’s Rainbow Honor Walk a gesture recognizing both Casement’s humanitarian legacy and Ireland’s connection to global human rights movements.

With an estimated 3.6 million people of Irish descent living across California and Illinois, Richmond noted that these states represent “vibrant centres of Irish life” and key locations for dialogue as the government refines its diaspora engagement strategy.

Over 300 Irish companies now operate across both states, employing more than 34,000 people, according to Enterprise Ireland.

The Chicago visit continues Ireland’s “Global Ireland” programme, which seeks to expand the country’s diplomatic and trade presence worldwide through new embassies and cultural partnerships.