In May 2026, Kelley, O’Rourke and Gregg Thomassin attended the fourth Global Irish Civic Forum at Croke Park in Dublin. Kelley represented both the Montreal Irish Monument and the Canadian Irish Migration Preservation Network (CIMPN), and Gregg represented CIMPN. Organized by Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, the Forum brought together approximately 250 delegates from 21 countries, representing Irish organizations, cultural groups, researchers, support services, business networks, and community leaders from across the global Irish diaspora.
One of the central purposes of the Forum was the launch of Ireland’s new Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030, presented by Minister Neale Richmond and representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs. Delegates learned that the strategy had been shaped through extensive consultation with diaspora organizations and through feedback gathered from more than 10,000 participants worldwide
A major theme throughout the Forum was the recognition that Ireland’s diaspora represents one of the country’s greatest strengths. Ireland sees itself not simply as a small nation, but as a global community connected through culture, history, family, and identity. At a time when many nations appear increasingly inward-looking, Ireland is actively expanding and strengthening its international connections.
Video recordings of the conference are available at Global Irish Civic Forum 2026: Day 1 and Day 2.