‘Indians contribute significantly to Ireland's health sector’

Irish Ambassador to India Kevin Kelly is an admirer of Indian ethos and value systems.

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He hails the Indian community settled in Ireland for their valuable contribution in fields such as ICT, pharma, finance, healthcare, education and services. He believes their presence means the Indian traditions and festivals are now also becoming part of Irish life. In a freewheeling conversation with Surya S Pillai of The Statesman, the envoy talks about India-Ireland relations, the Asia Pacific strategy, the disturbing trend of recent attacks on Indians, and the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland. Ireland is the official country partner for the Hornbill Festival 2025; the flagship international culture festival for the north eastern state.

Q. More than one lakh Indians are residing in Ireland. How do you look at their contribution to the Irish economy?

A.Iam very happy to say we have a very big and growing population of Indians in Ireland. They are operating in all parts of our society, be it the healthcare system, IT, pharmaceuticals, and other key industries. It is something that we very much welcome. And, of course, we have a history of being immigrants ourselves.

Q. Ireland is emerging as a major immigrant destination. What are the challenges involved in it, and what do you have to say on the recent racial attacks targeting Indians?

A. Yes, we had a difficult summer this time. There was a series of attacks against people considered to be ‘different’. And, of course, it was a horrible experience for the Indian community because there was an impression that Indians were particularly being targeted. And it was done by these young, teenage fellows. I do not know from where they are influenced, whether it is through the internet or outside forces.