Godfrey Timmins
Question:8 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will take an initiative to strengthen the strong cultural links which exist between Newfoundland and the south-east of Ireland.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Cultural Links with Newfoundland.
I am well aware of our historical and cultural links with Newfoundland and of the province's particular connection with the south-east of Ireland due to the pattern of emigration in the past from Waterford and Wexford.
In recognition of these ties the Cultural Relations Committee of my Department has for many years supported the activities of the Irish Newfoundland Association and has assisted other cultural projects in Canada which have included Newfoundland in their itineraries. Our Ambassador to Canada regularly visits Newfoundland to support Irish cultural and economic interests there.
I understand that there are plans to reinforce and celebrate these links with conferences, one to be held in Ireland in 1995 and the second in Newfoundland in 1997. When the details of these are confirmed I will be happy to consider any ways in which we can offer our support.
I want to remind the Minister that in the 1700s many people emigrated from Waterford and Wexford to Newfoundland. I understand they still speak with good Waterford and Wexford accents there even though they have never set foot in this country.
Would the Minister consider appointing an Irish consul in Newfoundland so that these links can be further strengthened? In his reply he referred to our Ambassador to Canada regularly visiting Newfoundland, but perhaps he might consider appointing an honorary consul there.
I welcome the information from the Deputy in relation to the Waterford and Wexford accents that are to be heard in Newfoundland. Given my penchant for making appointments, I will gladly consider appointing a consul in Newfoundland.
Deputy Callely might be the right person to send there.
Send him to Iceland.
The lights were on in Newfoundland last night as I passed there.
We should not let Dublin County Council know about Newfoundland. They might rezone it.