Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 598: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the concept of the organisation of an international parade day for foreign national communities in order to increase an awareness of their culture and contribution to society here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3810/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Office of the Minister for Integration is not aware of any particular demand from migrant groups for the holding of an event such as that suggested by the Deputy. A number of events, stressing the cultural heritage of various migrants groups are held, both at a national and local level. The holding of such events enables each community to learn more about the culture and history of each others communities and also is important for the sponsoring community to provide information on its history. In the absence of a demand from communities themselves, it is doubtful that one national day would be accepted, given the particular attachments so many communities have to particular dates or festivals.