Ireland in Canada
Ireland and Canada have a deep and enduring friendship based on shared values and people-to-people connections that go back centuries
There are an estimated 4.5 million Canadians today that have Irish ancestry, representing almost 15% of the population. The Irish community in Canada is one of the fastest growing, most vibrant and youngest Irish diaspora communities across the globe.
Global Irish Famine Way
Explore the longest heritage trail in the world, commemorating the Great Irish Famine
Technology fuelling an Irish language revival
The North American Gaeltacht in Canada offers a dedicated space for the Irish language
PDSA awardee: Bridget Brownlow
The Canadian university professor has dedicated her career to peace education
Ireland's Strategy for the US and Canada
This strategy sees Ireland doubling its impact in Canada to 2025
The Irish people have exerted profound influence on Canada over four centuries.
Long settled in Newfoundland, since the late 16th Century the Irish featured prominently as lumber barons, farmers, labourers, explorers, writers, politicians, lawyers, educators, inventors, business leaders, and senior churchmen.
Thomas D’Arcy McGee played a leading role in Confederation while Mother Teresa Dease educated generations of Canadian youth in schools she founded.
Shaping modern Canada
The influence and contribution of Irish Canadians has been immense over the generations. From inventors like Thomas Ahearn and soldiers like Arthur Currie to rights activists like the Famous Five women, and Prime Ministers like Louis St Laurent and Brian Mulroney, Irish Canadians helped shape modern Canada.
Our contemporary relationship is built on common political viewpoints, shared values like bilingualism and inclusivity, thriving trade links and strong people-to-people connections that run through generations.
15,000
people are employed by Canadian companies in Ireland
2021
a motion designating March as 'Irish Heritage Month' was passed
10,700
participants take part in the Working Holiday Agreement each year
Embassy of Ireland, Canada
The Embassy and Consulates work to:
- promote and protect Irish interests in Canada
- strengthen political and economic relationships
- support the Irish community
- advance cultural ties and promote the Irish arts
Our partners
The Embassy works closely with Irish State Agencies in Canada and at home, to promote trade, tourism and inward investment.
Enterprise Ireland
Enterprise Ireland is the government organisation responsible for the development and growth of Irish enterprises in world markets.
IDA Ireland
Promoting foreign direct investment into Ireland through a wide range of services.
Tourism Ireland
Marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a holiday and business tourism destination.
Bord Bia
The role of Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, is to act as a link between Irish food, drink and horticulture suppliers, and existing and potential customers throughout the world.