John O'Donoghue
Question:1 Mr. O'Donoghue asked the Taoiseach the progress, if any, which has been made to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the death of Daniel O'Connell on 15 May 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6347/97]
Ceisteanna — Questions. - Commemorative Events.
The position has not changed since I replied to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 1 and 2 on 15 May 1996. The Deputy will recall that I replied in detail to him by way of letter on 23 October 1996 to a suggestion made in a supplementary question about the acquisition of Daniel O'Connell's birthplace outside Caherciveen, County Kerry.
My party's Daniel O'Connell is not present today and I am speaking on his behalf. The Government has shown a lack of imagination in regard to this issue. Is it proposed to hold special commemorative events or to issue commemorative stamps to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the death of Daniel O'Connell?
As I indicated to Deputy O'Donoghue on the previous occasions he raised this issue, the Government proposes to issue a stamp to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Daniel O'Connell. I understand the Office of Public Works is currently having discussions with a descendant, Professor Maurice O'Connell, on the possibility of holding a ceremony in Derrynane House on the occasion of the anniversary. Two possibilities are an open air mass and a special open day. Other possibilities, for example, a celebration in Dublin, are also under consideration.