Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Many different events are going to take place in the context of 2016, one of which involves connecting with the diaspora. We are working with our embassies throughout the world to link in with the members of the diaspora. I visited New Orleans in November for the International Famine Commemoration 2014 and I am aware that there is a great interest in the 1916 commemorations. The Deputy may rest assured that we are going to connect with the diaspora. However, it must be remembered that the next year's commemorations are going to be about the Irish people and about the country itself. The events that will take place will allow us to remember those who lost their lives in 1916 and respect the sacrifice they made. If people want to visit Ireland to participate in the commemorations, they will certainly be made very welcome. I reassure the Deputy that our embassies will, with the support of Culture Ireland, continue their programme of engagement with the diaspora on this matter.

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