Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Department of the Taoiseach is, by and large, the lead Department for commemorations. A significant distinction has been drawn between permanent State commemorations such as that at Arbour Hill and once-off programmes such as the Famine and 1798 commemorations. Our commemorations have been successful because they have not been partisan or tribal but have commemorated broad national movements. I am sure it is the Taoiseach's intention to maintain this policy and approach. The 1916 and National Day of Commemoration events are valuable. Recent events have demonstrated the significant degree of public interest and engagement in such commemorations. The 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising is a good illustration of such interest.

My party has received correspondence from the Taoiseach on nominees for the consultation group. We have made a decision in the matter which we will forward to the Taoiseach. Has he considered the possibility of handing over responsibility for the entire commemoration agenda to the Oireachtas for it to work and deliberate on?

I do not propose to comment on the millennium of the Battle of Clontarf other than to suggest Deputy Finian McGrath will have an informed perspective on ongoing battles in Clontarf.

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