Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 January 2014
389. Deputy Brian Walsh asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans for investment in Pearse's cottage in Rosmuc, County Galway in advance of the 1916 centenary; the way he evaluates the importance of the cottage in the context of commemorative events in the west in 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2304/14]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, under the Capital Stimulus Package announced in the Budget, funding of €6m was provided for 2014 in respect of the 1916 Commemorations Programme. A number of projects come under the scope of this programme, including Kilmainham Courthouse, the GPO, the Military Archives and Pearse's Cottage in Ros Muc.
With regard to Ros Muc, a steering group comprising the various stakeholders, including Údarás na Gaeltachta, Galway County Council, OPW, Fáilte Ireland and my own Department, has been established to oversee, coordinate and ensure that the project is delivered within the timeframe envisaged. In that context, a number of issues are currently being addressed, including legal title to the site, planning requirements and overall funding for the project. I should say that all the stakeholders have indicated their full support for ensuring that the project is brought to fruition.
I consider it very fitting that this project is being advanced as part of the 1916 Commemorations Programme since the development of Pearse's Cottage will bring together the legacy of Pearse's contribution to Irish history and education and, in particular, his involvement with the Irish language and the Gaeltacht community. I am satisfied that this development will also create excellent opportunities, not only for the community of Ros Muc, but also for the wider region. It will undoubtedly benefit the area in terms of increased tourism, particularly in terms of cultural tourism and the creation of employment in the area. Indeed, I am advised that Pearse's Cottage is afforded special recognition in Fáilte Ireland's Connemara Destination Plan, Wild Atlantic Way and Connemara Driving Tour and is a key component of the strategy to develop the tourism sector in Connemara.
