Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 41: To ask the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will initiate, encourage and sponsor cultural events to mark the forthcoming centenary of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic and the 1916 Easter Rising in 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10614/11]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I refer the Deputy to my earlier reply to Priority Question No 29.

As we approach the Centenary of the Easter Rising and of many other events of profound historical significance, I believe there is a need for an extensive and balanced programme of commemorative activities and events reflecting the cultural, economic, social and political events of the period.

As already stated, the arrangements for National Commemorative Programmes are co-ordinated by the Department of the Taoiseach. Reflecting the strong interest of the Government, the Taoiseach wrote on 3rd May seeking nominations from Party Leaders with a view to the re-establishment of the All Party Oireachtas Consultation Group on Centenary Commemorations. This Oireachtas Consultation Group, which I will Chair, will offer a forum to consider the duration, scope and scale of an appropriate commemorative programme to cover the Centenary anniversaries of a momentous period of our national history.

The national commemorative arrangements will reflect official consideration and consultation on an inclusive basis in the Oireachtas. I would also welcome proposals from voluntary bodies, community groups and the Irish people at home and abroad. I envisage a multi-annual programme extending in the first phase to 2016.

The events of 1916 and the following years were momentous ones for the country. In the natural order of things, it is the first major anniversary to be addressed by a generation with no direct involvement in that period of struggle and conflict. Insulated in this way, there is an unprecedented capacity for objectivity and uninhibited dialogue.

I should not embark today on the discussions which will take place within the Consultation Group on the possible arrangements. It is sufficient to say that I am looking forward to meeting with the nominated representatives shortly to progress this initiative.