Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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7. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the commemorative activities planned to mark the centenary of the passage into law of the Home Rule Act on 18 September 1914, which laid the ground for the treaty and full independence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31149/14]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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To date, there have been 12 events dedicated to the history of the Third Home Rule Bill and related events. In the centenary commemorative programme, this year marks the passing of legislation for Irish Home Rule. Building on the work of Charles Stewart Parnell and the Land League, John Redmond and his party finally delivered the Home Rule Act. This was passed on the eve of the Great War and incomplete in its final form, with some vital issues unresolved. It was, of course, soon overtaken by events. It is right that we acknowledge the work of Irish parliamentarians in keeping the cause of self-determination alive and sustaining hope through some of the darkest periods of our history. It is appropriate that John Redmond's leadership is being remembered with a series of events, exhibitions and lectures to take place this year in Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford, Dublin and London. It is to be noted particularly that the restoration of John Redmond's vault in Wexford is being addressed in the context of the centenary commemorative programme.

In the context of the recognition of the place of John Redmond and the Irish Parliamentary Party, the Deputy may be aware of the significant event held to mark the centenary of the Home Rule Act, hosted in the Irish Embassy in London on 1 July last. I understand a lively debate took place about the Home Rule Act, alternative possibilities, the evolution of Irish nationalism and Ulster unionism, and subsequent developments. The distinguished panel of guest speakers comprised former Taoiseach John Bruton, Lord Paul Bew, Professor Michael Laffan and Professor Richard Toye, while the audience included a range of Westminster parliamentarians, academics, community, business and cultural representatives, officials, advisers and media.

BBC Parliament filmed the debate and it was broadcast on 5 July last. I understand that edited highlights are also likely to be used as part of BBC’s ongoing commemorations coverage. The event was also covered in print media, including in the Irish Times and Irish Independent.

An appropriate event will also be held to commemorate the speech delivered by John Redmond on 18 September 1914 in Woodenbridge, Co Wexford, which encouraged members of the Irish Volunteers to engage with the armed forces on the outbreak of the Great War.