Written answer
Culture Policy
1498. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to initiate a formal process to have the Claddagh ring recognised under Ireland's framework for intangible cultural heritage in line with UNESCO's Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55799/26]
Comment on this
In December 2015, Ireland ratified the UNESCO 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, which aims to safeguard, appreciate and raise awareness of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) while also providing for international cooperation and assistance in this area.
As required under the Convention, Ireland maintains a National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which recognises 42 intangible cultural heritage practices from communities around the country. The 42 practices now on the Inventory are published and available at www.//nationalinventoryich.ccs.gov.ie/national-inventory/
The Department of Culture, Communications and Sports accepts applications from practices that would like to be added to the National Inventory. In line with the Convention, applications should be made by relevant practitioners of the cultural heritage element seeking inscription. All applications are then assessed by an Expert Advisory Committee on Intangible Cultural Heritage, which makes recommendations to the Minister for decision. To date, my Department has not received an application seeking the inscription of the Claddagh ring.
The formal process for inscription on Ireland's National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage therefore requires an application or expression of interest to be made to my Department. Details on how to apply for inscription can be found at: www.//nationalinventoryich.ccs.gov.ie/national-inventory/. Officials in my Department are available to answer any queries applicants may have in relation to the application process via nationalich@ccs.gov.ie, and would welcome the opportunity to discuss the process further with relevant practitioners.