Museum Projects

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Questions (672)

Conor Sheehan

Question:

672. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 384 of 22 January 2026, if he is aware that the National Museum possesses the original American flag that the Catalpa, the escape ship, flew under; his views on the National Museum exhibiting the flag for the 150th anniversary in April 2026; his views on the National Museum loaning it during the currency of this anniversary year to the county museums in the State where the escapers originated from, that is, Limerick, Cork and Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9673/26]

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Written answers

Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport

I am aware that the Catalpa flag is in the collection of the National Museum of Ireland (NMI). The National Museum of Ireland has confirmed that they have not been approached by any other body in relation to a loan of the Catalpa flag.

I have been informed that the NMI would not be in a position to loan the flag this year as it requires conservation treatment and preparation for transport and display. However, my Department is working with the National Museum to explore possible commemorative initiatives to mark this anniversary within the short time frame that is available. This may involve the creation of online content around the care and history of the flag and the NMI is exploring the feasibility of providing some public access to it.