asked the Minister for Finance whether there is a bust or painting of Wolfe Tone displayed in the Houses of the Oireachtas; if not, why; and if the display of such a bust or painting is contemplated.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Display of Bust or Painting of Wolfe Tone.
17.
A painting of Wolfe Tone is displayed in the ante-room to the Seanad Chamber.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there is no reference to Wolfe Tone on the painting and that portraits of persons of that period look alike? In view of the fact that Tone was the father of Republicanism, it is in this House that the portrait ought to be, not hidden in the Seanad. We all know that Wolfe Tone disliked men of property. I do not know why the portrait is buried in the Seanad, in secrecy, and not displayed in this House.
That is a separate question.
I would ask the Parliamentary Secretary is it the intention to have the portrait or bust among us of the lower order?
That is a separate question.
I used the plural— Houses of the Oireachtas—in my question and I am asking a Supplementary Question.
The selection of the place to hang the portrait of Wolfe Tone was a very important matter. I do not think any Irishman should require the title, Wolfe Tone, to be on the portrait.
Nobody knows who it is. I did not know and I know a good deal about Wolfe Tone.