Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 October 2023
244. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she has had any further notice of the return of Irish artefacts held in overseas museums (details supplied). [43618/23]
View answerAs I outlined to the Deputy under Question No 298/23 on 31 January, the National Museum is charged with maintaining, managing, controlling, protecting, preserving, recording, conducting research and enlarging the collection of museum heritage objectives for the benefit of the public. Its functions also provide for entering into agreements with comparable institutions in support of this primary purpose.
Just as our National Collection contains artworks and objects from around the world, so too are Irish artefacts to be found in various international museums. Prior to the enactment of the relevant legislation (the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 and the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997), and as is the case in many countries, objects from Ireland were often legitimately acquired by antiquarian collectors and ultimately entered the collections of other museums through onward sale or donation. This type of activity dates from a time which predates the current legislation and its provisions relating to the discovery, possession and sale of archaeological objects. This underscores the importance of provenance research relating to these objects.
Additionally, I would note that many Irish objects from collections in overseas museums have been loaned to Irish institutions for specific exhibitions. The National Museum of Ireland maintains close relationships with international museums that hold Irish artefacts and has often borrowed such material for exhibitions. The institutions also collaborate and share research in this area.
My Department, along with the National Museum of Ireland, will continue to consider potential opportunities in this regard.
