Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 February 2024
95. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if her attention has been drawn to correspondence sent to her office from a person (details supplied) concerning the prestigious Polar Medal which was awarded to an Irish born Antarctic explorer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8253/24]
View answerMy Department is aware of the correspondence referred to and of the celebrations in Dublin and London for the 150th anniversary of the birth of Antarctic explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton. The mention of his name invokes memories of amazing adventures, bravery, fortitude and skill in perhaps the final phase of the Age of Discovery. Because of his indomitable spirit and achievements, Sir Ernest remains in the popular memory as an inspirational hero.
Although a figure of international renown, Shackleton's memory is particularly memorialised in Ireland Great Britain, and in New Zealand (Antarctic Heritage Trust). Born in Athy in 1874, the family moved to London when Ernest was 10. Shackleton is very much part of the 'shared heritage' of Britain and Ireland, - in which context it was pleasing to note that the new memorial plaque at Westminster Abbey incorporated both Kilkenny limestone and Connemara marble in acknowledgement of his Irish identity.
Among the awards bestowed on Shackleton, interest has focussed on the Polar Medal and the interest that it might possibly be acquired for public display in Ireland. It is an artefact of exceptional significance, a silver medal with three bars representing the Antarctic voyages of 1902-04, 1907-09 and 1914-16. I understand that a prohibition on export from the United Kingdom is currently in place on the recommendation of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest.
I take this opportunity to commend all the authorities, community groups and Heritage Trusts that have contributed to the 150th anniversary programme for Sir Ernest Shackleton. I believe his memory will be carried forward by future generations and that his achievements will inspire their adventurous spirit.
