Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 4 to 8, inclusive, together.

There are no plans for an official commemoration of the foundation of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, IRB, on its 150th anniversary. I acknowledge the historical significance of the IRB and the influential role of the organisation in the progress towards independence. However, it is not possible for every anniversary to be officially commemorated. The activities of the IRB and its influence on historic events will be a significant element in the centenary commemorations in the years towards 2016. I would welcome initiatives from colleges and academic institutions on this theme during the anniversary year.

An interdepartmental collaboration, led by my Department, is preparing a continuation of the commemoration of the Flight of the Earls on its 400th anniversary, reflecting their progress from Louvain to Rome. Academic and cultural programmes have been developed in co-operation with the embassies of Ireland in Belgium, Strasbourg, Berne and Rome, which I am confident will bring to attention this very significant part of Ireland's historical engagement in Europe. Funding for that commemorative activity is provided from the Vote of the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism.

My Department was involved as usual in the annual commemoration of the Easter Rising at the GPO on 23 March and will be involved in the national day of commemoration at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham on 13 July next. It will also assist with the arrangements for other events.

Previous discussion in the House contemplated the inauguration of an annual Famine memorial day and there was a growing consensus on that between the parties. Official consideration was undertaken about how that might be explored further. The assessment had regard both to the specific issues of food security and the general heritage arising through emigration and cultural loss. Several possibilities were identified, some of which could be implemented. We must decide the most appropriate arrangements for such a commemoration. My colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, has arranged a commemorative event in Dublin for this Sunday, 25 May 2008 to complement a community event in Dublin marking the great Famine.

Regarding the anniversary of the First Dáil, I recall that the 75th anniversary was marked by a special commemoration. I feel that annual commemoration in the normal course of that first meeting would be more appropriately a matter for the Oireachtas in the first instance.

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