Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 June 2022
141. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the artifacts or art pieces that were under the control of the State that have been repatriated to the country of origin in each year from 2002 to 2021 and to date in 2022; if she will provide a description of the artifact or art piece and the country to which it was returned in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35123/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn keeping with international best practice, the National Cultural Institutions have carefully developed policies in relation to the care and management of the national collections. Increasingly in recent decades, curatorial responsibilities require a constant consideration of ethics and the changing sensitivities with regard to the acquisition, holding and exhibition of historic artefacts. The exploitation of peoples abroad or the expropriation of their cultural artefacts is a profound concern, whether dating from the historic past or occurring in more recent times, and one about which the National Cultural Institutions are acutely aware.
There have not been any repatriation of artefacts or art pieces from the National Collections since 2002, nor are there currently any requests for repatriation with the National Cultural Institutions. In keeping with their remit the National Cultural Institutions regularly engage with global indigenous communities seeking information or requests for research access on collections within their care. The facilitation of these engagements enables greater provenance research, relationship building and further dialogue with these communities.
I understand that safeguarding arrangements are in place for the consideration of any future acquisitions to the national collections and I am satisfied with the integrity and commitment in the National Cultural Institutions to investigate and consider any enquiries or complaints that might be brought relating to the historic context, interpretation or provenance of the collections.
