Reaching out to the Irish Diaspora

[dlohan]

When The National Archives of Ireland published the details of the Irish 1901 Census online earlier this year over 300,000 online visitors descended upon the site in just the first 3 days alone! Sometimes it is easy amongst the applause of success to forget to step back and see the bigger picture.

I have been concerned for some time now that the successful online publication of the 1901 Census (and earlier publication of the 1911 Census) pointed to a greater need being expressed by the Irish Diaspora.

I have wondered if much more could be done to provide online access to Irish Genealogy, and not only to allow participants to "listen" but rather to allow the Irish Diaspora & the People of Ireland to "tell" their Story of Ireland, and indeed the greater story of the Irish family. The Story of Ireland extends far beyond the shores of Ireland, and there are innumerable experiences to be recounted & shared.

I do believe more can be done and I believe too that it ought to be done. I would welcome your opinions in this regard.