Leitrim County Council launches five-year strategy
Leitrim County Council has launched a new five-year strategy aimed at strengthening ties with its global diaspora while creating fresh opportunities for tourism, business and cultural engagement.
The Rooted in Leitrim, Growing Global Connections: Leitrim’s Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 was unveiled at Margaret of New Orleans Birthplace in Carrigallen, a replica of the childhood home of Irish emigrant and philanthropist Margaret Haughery.
The strategy outlines a series of initiatives designed to encourage people with Leitrim connections to visit the county, support local enterprise, engage with communities and participate in cultural life.
A key part of the plan is the launch of the Leitrim Diaspora Gateway, an online hub providing access to genealogy and heritage resources alongside information on tourism attractions, events, sporting activities and business networks.
The platform is aimed at people living abroad, returning emigrants and anyone exploring family or ancestral links to Leitrim.
The strategy is built around four pillars: tourism and placemaking, community engagement and cultural events, economic development and enterprise, and family, heritage and connection.
Among the business-focused initiatives is the continued expansion of the Leitrim Global Business Network, which connects local companies with diaspora professionals, entrepreneurs and business leaders across the US, UK and other international markets.
Leitrim County Council Chief Executive Joseph Gilhooly said the strategy was designed to convert people's connection with the county into tangible economic and social benefits.
"The Leitrim diaspora includes people who were born here, those with family roots in the county and others who have developed a lasting connection to Leitrim.
“This strategy is about turning that sense of belonging into practical opportunities for our communities, cultural life and economy."
Carrigallen Youth Theatre representing Leitrim Youth Arts perform at Leitrim Diaspora Strategy Launch at Margaret of New Orleans cottage
He added that the new Diaspora Gateway would make it easier for people around the world to reconnect with the county by bringing together heritage resources, events and engagement opportunities in a single accessible platform.
The launch event also featured performances by local artists and Leitrim Youth Arts, as well as an address by author Michael Harding, celebrating the county's enduring links with its global diaspora.
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