Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Gathering is a reminder once again of the importance we place on who we are as a people. We are interested in tracing our roots, being more aware of the environment in which our ancestors grew up, their challenges and achievements. Genealogy is an important tool when it comes to tourism because it helps the families of emigrants return to the homeland to see where their people lived. In that context, I have a Bill on the Order Paper relating to the publication of the 1926 census returns. The importance of this census is that it was the first since the foundation of the State. As there is common interest on both sides of the House in publishing these census returns, will the Leader agree to take my Bill in Government time?

The report of the relatives of the 1916 leaders of their visit to the historic buildings on Moore Street made sad reading. These buildings are some of the most important national monuments we have, which we were given to understand would be conserved. The relatives, however, said they were shocked and horrified at the state of the buildings. Water was running down the walls. Plastic sheeting was being used in an effort to keep out the elements. This is happening while we get closer to the centenary of the 1916 Rising. Will the Leader bring this to the attention of the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, for whom I have great respect? He needs to take a hands-on interest in this matter. For example, if the Alamo site were treated like this, it would shock people internationally, especially those who want to respect the sacrifices of patriots of the past.