Famine Artefacts

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012

Tuesday, 6 November 2012

Questions (609)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

609. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his public policy in relation to the identification, collection and storage of artifacts relating to the great famine; if the National Museum of Ireland has within its possession materials of this nature; if it can quantify the number of such artifacts that it holds; if it is in possession of a catalogue or inventory of significant famine related items held in county museums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47883/12]

Written answers

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

I am advised by the National Museum of Ireland that it collects material of national and regional importance where a connection with the Great Famine is verifiable. I understand that the Museum is in possession of a number of objects relating to the Famine that are categorised broadly into 12 collections. The Deputy will appreciate, however, that these are day-to-day operational matters for the Museum and, accordingly, if he so wishes, I will be happy to facilitate a briefing for him from the Acting Director.

I am advised that the Museum does not have a list or catalogue of Famine-related material in county museums.