I am fully aware of and am personally involved in the efforts being made to secure the return from Canada to Ireland of the Maguire Chalice which dates from 1633.
My view is that this important part of our history and heritage should be brought back to Ireland. I, therefore, arranged to have the Director of the National Museum, in co-operation with other interested parties, prepare a formal presentation of the case for repatriation to be made to the Church authorities in Canada who have possession of the chalice at present and to any other relevant Canadian authorities. This presentation will be handed over by our Ambassador in Canada who has been instructed to stress the Government's concern to have the Maguire Chalice repatriated. The Ambassador is already in contact with the Church authorities concerned.