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Commemorative Events

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Questions (152)

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

152. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans for members of the Defence Forces to participate in upcoming events to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War at home and abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13468/14]

View answer

Written answers

The development of the commemorative programme for the centenary period, to include World War I, is being co-ordinated on behalf of the Government by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Mr. Jimmy Deenihan, T.D. I understand that these arrangements to mark the outbreak of the War are still under development.My Department and the Defence Forces are liaising closely with the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in supporting commemorative events in Ireland and abroad to mark the centenary of World War I, where appropriate. In common with the many nations who share the history of World War I, it is appropriate that we acknowledge the service and loss of Irish soldiers in that conflict.

In this regard, the Defence Forces already play a central role in the annual commemorations at the National War Memorial Garden in Islandbridge and in the National Day of Commemoration ceremony in Kilmainham. Members of the Defence Forces have also participated in World War I events abroad, such as the Gallipoli commemorations in 2013 and the commemorative event held in Flanders last December with both the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister in attendance.

In addition to the support and representation provided at national and international commemorations to mark World War I, requests for Defence Forces participation in events organised by local authorities and community groups are also received and considered, where appropriate. I am conscious however that the contribution made by the Defence Forces in providing ceremonial input should be limited to events of significant and national importance as to do otherwise would diminish the significance of their role in the more important State occasions.

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