Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
505. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps that have been taken to investigate the procurement of the rights of a book (details supplied) as was suggested in Dáil Éireann in December 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21316/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe importance of acknowledging, respecting and effectively dealing with the tragic legacy of the past cannot be underestimated. Lost Lives, which chronicles all of the 3,700 people killed in the conflict, is a significant historical and social resource.
The rights to Lost Lives are solely a matter for its authors, who have made such a valuable contribution to the historical record in compiling this important work. Should the authors wish to explore what support could be provided with respect to the accessibility of Lost Lives into the future, the Government has given the assurance that we will remain ready to engage on any appropriate avenues for that support.
The Government also facilitates remembrance of lives lost during the Troubles through a range of projects and initiatives supported by the Reconciliation Fund. These include, among many others, the annual Day of Reflection promoted by the Healing Through Remembering group to facilitate quiet remembrance of the impact of the conflict on lives across these islands, and the important work of CAIN at Ulster University, which provides a comprehensive chronology of the Troubles, and an extensive database of historical sources that serve as a permanent reminder of the tragic events which saw so many lose their lives and left so many bereaved.
