Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
257. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the plans to celebrate and commemorate the Irish born, internationally recognised and celebrated arctic explorer, Ernest Shackleton's 150th anniversary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9383/24]
View answerThe planned events 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.
Following the conclusion of the Decade of Centenaries, the Government has agreed to adopt a supportive and facilitative approach to commemorations, in the context of the annual budgets and funding available. I have approved a grant funding allocation of €15,000 for every local authority in 2024, to assist local authorities in developing or supporting community-led initiatives to commemorate the centenaries of significant historical events in the early years of the State, as well as other significant anniversaries and associated themes.
If the Deputy is aware of any specific proposals for funding in this regard, I would be happy to give these due consideration in the context of my Department’s support for commemorative activities and the funding available.
