Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 May 2013
433. Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will outline the costs associated with the hosting of the Drogheda 2012 National Famine Memorial Day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25512/13]
View answerThe cost associated with the hosting of National Famine Commemoration day in Drogheda in 2012 was approximately €56,000. This total includes costs associated with the stage erection, sound systems, health and safety consultancy, the erection of a marquee, barriers etc. In addition it includes the cost of printing ceremony booklets, printing information regarding the local programme of events in the run up to the national event, a contribution towards basic catering costs, a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion in the local community and a photographer for the event. It also includes the cost of the wreaths laid by members of the diplomatic corps as part of the official ceremony.
It is important that we appropriately commemorate the victims of the Great Irish Famine and also raise awareness of food security issues worldwide. The hosting of a national day of commemoration provides an excellent opportunity to do this.
