Grattan’s Parliament bicentenary
The Taoiseach confirmed that events were planned or underway to mark the bicentenary, including a reception, a published article, and educational materials. Harte and Kelly challenged the Taoiseach over reports linking Grattan’s outlook to Fianna Fáil policy and the Government’s historical allegiances; the Taoiseach denied making the reported statement, offered Harte a copy of his speech, and defended Grattan’s Parliament’s historical importance. The Chair then moved to the next question.
asked the Taoiseach if the Government intend to mark the bicentenary of Grattan's Parliament.
Comment on this
Yes. There are a number of events planned to commemorate the Bicentenary of Grattan's Parliament.
Some events have already taken place — a reception hosted by myself in the old Irish Parliament House, at the Bank of Ireland, College Green. This was held on 16 April 1982, which was the actual bicentenary date of Grattan's "Declaration of Independence" speech.
An article on Grattan's Parliament, by Professor J.C. Beckett was included in the April edition of the Department of Foreign Affairs' publication Ireland Today. At the moment also a school pack and film strip, which has been prepared by the Department of Education, is being distributed to schools throughout the country.
Other planned events are:—(i) a major exhibition covering the Grattan era to be held in the National Museum. This exhibition will commence towards the end of June; (ii) a commemorative plaque will be unveiled on the site of Grattan's former home on St. Stephen's Green; (iii) a bust in stone of Henry Grattan will be unveiled in Merrion Square Park later this year; (iv) a commemorative stamp to be issued in October.
Comment on this
Speaking recently at a bicentenary function in Parliament Buildings, the Taoiseach stated that Grattan's outlook on the future of Ireland was in line with and consistent with Fianna Fáil policy.
Comment on this
If he did not say this, did he correct that statement which appeared in the press that it was consistent with Fianna Fáil policy of today?
Comment on this
Was the Taoiseach aware, when he made this statement referred to by Deputy Harte, that to the members of Grattan's Parliament the ideals and purposes of the United Irishmen and of Wolfe Tone were poison? How does he reconcile his attachment — or does it go any further than attending receptions or throwing them with public money — how does he reconcile the policy of Grattan's Parliament with the professed allegiance which his party has always shown to Wolfe Tone?
Comment on this
The Deputy's question is based on some apparent statement which I did not make. I believe that Grattan's Parliament was a very important event in our history which made a great contribution, particularly to our economic development, and I do not feel it necessary to regard admiration for one particular position as necessarily being equivalent to condemning another.
Comment on this
I hope the Taoiseach will give me a straightforward answer to my question. The Taoiseach has been reported as saying that the developing policies of Grattan's Parliament were in line and consistent with Fianna Fáil policy. Would the Taoiseach clarify that statement?
Comment on this
The Deputy is mistaken in what he is attributing to me and, as I said, I will do him the courtesy of sending him a copy of the speech which I made on that occasion.
Comment on this
Is the Taoiseach proposing to commemorate a man and a Parliament for which he has no respect?
Comment on this
This question asked me if the Government intend to mark the bicentenary of Grattan's Parliament and I have answered that question fully.
Comment on this
Would it be fair to say that the Taoiseach's interest in Grattan's Parliament is what I might call a reception, a cheese-and-wine interest, considering the fact that the Department of Foreign Affairs bulletin of last week contained one picture of Grattan and three of the Taoiseach?
