James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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210. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will consider the proposal to secure the archives, exhibits and artifacts from a museum (details supplied) and to use them for a national famine museum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4149/22]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Great Famine was a time which radically altered the course of Irish history and of American history. Many thousands of Irish emigrants fleeing Ireland at that time found refuge and a new home in the United States, and many of these are the ancestors of the 30 million Americans who now claim Irish heritage.

- Ireland’s Great Hunger Museum at Quinnipiac University holds an impressive collection of art, artefacts and literature related to the Famine. Showcasing collections such as these is important in ensuring the story of where the Irish came from is not forgotten. The Museum has played an important role in that process.

I am aware of the challenges facing the museum in recent years and believe that, should the museum not reopen in its current location, it would be important that a new home be found for this collection. The aim should be to re-house the collection so that the works it contains remain accessible to the public and researchers alike. I am aware that there is strong preference amongst the Irish American community for it to remain in the United States. Should another museum or institution be identified to host the collection, my Department would be happy to discuss if there are any ways we can offer support. Other Departments may also wish to consider this.