Vol. 403 No. 2
1 Mr. McCartan asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to the efforts being made to have the Maguire Chalice returned to this country for display in the National Museum of Ireland; if he will outline whether he is prepared to take action to support these efforts; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I am fully aware of and am personally involved in the efforts being made to secure the return from Canada to Ireland of the Maguire Chalice which dates from 1633.
My view is that this important part of our history and heritage should be brought back to Ireland. I, therefore, arranged to have the Director of the National Museum, in co-operation with other interested parties, prepare a formal presentation of the case for repatriation to be made to the Church authorities in Canada who have possession of the chalice at present and to any other relevant Canadian authorities. This presentation will be handed over by our Ambassador in Canada who has been instructed to stress the Government's concern to have the Maguire Chalice repatriated. The Ambassador is already in contact with the Church authorities concerned.
Would it be acceptable if I were to pay tribute to the Taoiseach for the personal interest he has taken in this matter which I have been informed about by Deputy O'Keeffe who was the first Deputy to bring this matter to his attention?
I am sure that would be acceptable.
I know the Taoiseach has been personally involved to a great extent in this matter and I hope his efforts will be successful.
Thank you.
