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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 12 Mar 1997

Vol. 476 No. 3

Ceisteanna—Questions. - 1798 Commemoration.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

5 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Taoiseach if he will give details of the meeting with representatives of the Orange Order on the commemoration of 1798. [6607/97]

I was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with Rev. Brian Kennaway, Convenor of the Grand Orange Lodge Education Committee, and Mr. David Richardson on Wednesday, 5 March last. At that meeting I outlined my committee's proposed programme of commemoration and advised Rev. Kennaway of events planned as part of the commemoration. Rev. Kennaway outlined details of the education committee's plans for the commemoration. I pointed out that it is the intention of the Government's 1798 Commemoration Committee to devise an inclusive commemorative programme which will reiterate the 1798 ideals of democracy and religious and civil liberties for all. It was agreed that we would maintain contact on proposed events as plans progressed.

The meeting was interesting, particularly in the context of the marching season and the report on that matter. Was the invitation to meet issued by the Minister or the Orange Order?

Last autumn I made contact with 53 historical societies in the North and I have also been in touch with Northern Ireland borough and district councils, Queen's University, the Ulster Museum, the Linen Hall and various other people. The Orange Order made the initial contact with me and I responded by inviting them to come to meet me for a working lunch, which took place last week.

I hope the theme "who fears to speak of '98" will have modern political implications which will be beneficial. The development is interesting and I hope it can be built upon.

I appreciate the Deputy's support. I look forward to maintaining contact, particularly given that 1798 had implications for all parts of this island. We should approach the bicentenary commemoration on an all-Ireland basis, in a non-sectarian, all-inclusive way, as would best commemorate the ideals of those involved at the time and the achievements they endeavoured to bring about.

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