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Statement on UNESCO decision to inscribe The Irish Folklore Commission Collection into the UNESCO Memory of the World Register

Date: Wed 6th Dec, 2017 | 10:47

 “As President of Ireland, mar Uachtarán na hÉireann, I welcome the inclusion of the collection assembled by an Coimisiún Béaloideasa Éireann, The Irish Folklore Commission, in the ‘Memory of the World’ register of the UN’s Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNESCO.

This inclusion is a welcome tribute to all the staff, researchers and volunteers who worked over the years on behalf of the Irish Folklore Commission. The Commission was set up in 1935; an inspired decision by the Irish Government to collect examples of Ireland’s rich oral and musical history. 

It is also a timely reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting the rich diversity of our cultural expressions and art forms, and I wish to congratulate all those who have worked to make this international recognition possible.”