Malcolm Byrne
Question:11. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline events planned for Canada-Ireland 180; and the way in which local communities in Ireland may be able to get involved [37827/26]
View answerThursday, 21 May 2026
Questions (11)
Written answers
The Canada-Ireland 180 initiative was developed by my Department and the Department of Communication, Culture and Sports, and the Canadian government to mark 180 years since 1847, a defining moment in the shared history of Ireland and Canada. Over 100,000 Irish people migrated to Canada in search of a better life as a result of the Great Famine, with 1847 the most significant year in that process. From then, Irish-Canadians would became a core part of Canada’s history, national identity and culture.
On his visit to Canada last September the Taoiseach, with Prime Minister Carney, announced the intention to develop a season of cultural and commemorative events in Canada in 2027.
Canada Ireland 180 will seek to honour the past, examine the present, and build a creative vision for the future. Anchored in the memory of Irish migration to Canada, the initiative will illuminate the deep and enduring ties between our peoples, forged in hardship and sustained through culture, values, and community.
The season is being organised as a joint partnership between my Department and the Department of Communications, Culture and Sport, working closely with the Canadian Government and cultural sector. It is due to commence in spring 2027 and to run through the calendar year.
An open call for expressions of interest from artists, presenters and wider organisations, which was advertised in Ireland and Canada, closed on 14 April and has received over 450 applications. Those are now being assessed by the Department of Communications, Culture and Sport and my Department.
As the programme takes shape across its strands of culture, commemoration and community, further opportunities for engagement will be publicised.