Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 222: To ask the Taoiseach if the Government have plans to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the death of Daniel O'Connell on 15 May 2007, the Liberator and founder of the Repeal Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28133/06]

Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)
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Commemorations are organised from time to time in respect of the anniversaries of signal events of historic importance, usually in relation to a 25th, 50th, 75th or 100th Anniversary with even longer intervals thereafter.

Having regard to their significance in our history, I would acknowledge that special consideration is justified with regard to Daniel O'Connell. However, Deputies will appreciate that there is not scope for official commemorations each year of all anniversaries and that the arrangements for commemorations during 2007 have not yet been decided.

I would not like to anticipate the outcome of consideration of the form and content of an appropriate commemorative programme for 2007. It is anticipated that some commemorative event will take place to mark the 160th anniversary of the death of Daniel O'Connell.