Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2023
298. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will open bilateral discussions with her British counterpart regarding Irish artefacts held in British institutions and their repatriation, including the Mount Keeffe Chalice and other artefacts. [4238/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Museum in its establishing legislation, the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997, is charged with maintaining, managing, controlling, protecting, preserving, recording, conducting research and enlarging the collection of museum heritage objectives for the benefit of the public. Its functions also provide for entering into agreements with comparable institutions in support of this primary purpose.
Just as our National Collection contains artworks and objects from around the world, so too are Irish artefacts to be found in various international museums. Prior to the enactment of the relevant legislation (the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 and the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997), and as is the case in many countries, objects from Ireland were often legitimately acquired by antiquarian collectors and ultimately entered the collections of other museums through onward sale or donation. This type of activity dates from a time which predates the current legislation and its provisions relating to the discovery, possession and sale of archaeological objects. This underscores the importance of provenance research relating to these objects.
Additionally, I would note that many Irish objects from collections in overseas museums have been loaned to Irish institutions for specific exhibitions. The National Museum of Ireland maintains close relationships with international museums that hold Irish artefacts and has often borrowed such material for exhibitions. The institutions also collaborate and share research in this area. I am aware from media reports that the British institution in which it is held has stated that the Mount Keeffe chalice is available for loan to Irish museums and my department officials will follow up with the National Museum on this matter specifically.
