Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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535. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will consider introducing legislation to establish the annual Rose of Tralee Festival on a legally enshrined status, to protect it for future generations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2556/25]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Rose of Tralee is one of Ireland's most prominent community based festivals and it has significantly contributed to strengthened connections with Ireland’s diaspora communities around the world.

Growing from a modest initiative in 1959 to develop local tourism, the Festival has gained a strong international profile and an enthusiastic following. The management and direction of the Festival are responsibilities of a private company established for that purpose.

As with other festivals around the country, I am satisfied that this autonomy is appropriate and I have no plans for legislation to change the status of the Festival.