Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 October 2025
205. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether he agrees that the international day of famine commemoration and the national famine commemoration should both take place on the third Sunday in May. [54375/25]
View answerThe National and International Famine Commemorations were established by the National Famine Commemoration Committee to remember all those who suffered, died or were forced to emigrate due to an Gorta Mór.
The National Famine Commemoration rotates annually between each province of Ireland, and in line with a 2018 Government Decision it is held on the third Sunday of May, or the preceding Saturday if required.
Since 2009, an International Famine Commemoration has also been held for those of Irish heritage and our diaspora communities. This ceremony is an opportunity for Irish communities abroad to connect and reflected on one of the most tragic events in our shared past but also to celebrate the many achievements of the descendants of those who emigrated. International Famine Commemorations have previously been hosted by Irish communities in the United States, Australia and Canada and plans will be announced shortly for the 2025 event.
My Department works with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to identify possible locations for this Commemoration and for other opportunities for our Diaspora to remember the Great Irish Famine. Locations are considered that have a meaningful connection to the Famine or to take place along with other complementary or support events that bring greater gravitas and opportunity for public engagement.
As Minister with responsibility for commemorations and as Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee my Department puts considerable effort and resources into these two events to ensure that they are delivered to the highest possible standard and to ensure the most tragic event in our past is remembered appropriately.
I do not agree that the International Famine Commemoration and the National Famine Commemoration should take place on the same day. I do not believe that either event would benefit from the division of resources that would result. The Deputy must be aware that this would not only restrict Government representation which has always reflected the State’s commitment to these commemorative events but would also cause undue pressure on our stakeholders that are essential for the delivery of these events. The potential greatest impact would be on the audiences who attend these events. To ensure that Government does justice to both the National and International Famine Commemorations and what they stand for, and to retain the flexibility to accommodate the wishes of host communities, my Department does not plan to schedule both events to take place on the 3rd weekend in May each year.
