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Statement on UNESCO recognition of Hurling and Camogie on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage

Date: Thu 29th Nov, 2018 | 09:32

“As Uachtarán na hÉireann, President of Ireland, I warmly welcome the decision by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNESCO to give global recognition to the ancient Irish games of hurling and camogie.

This decision is a global acknowledgement of the unique cultural significance of this part of our national culture, and of the important role gaelic games play in Irish society. It is, too, a tribute to the gaelic sports associations, whose work and volunteering ethos form the beating hearts of so many communities all over the island of Ireland, and further afield, as gaelic games are now played on every continent.

Most of all, UNESCO’s decision highlights yet again that team spirit, respect for skill excellence and creativity are at the heart of Irish society, and that our cultural heritage is worth protecting and celebrating. 

We can all, on our shared island of Ireland and all of the Irish abroad, be very proud of our native sports, and of our international reputation for creativity; a reputation which is greatly enhanced by our sportswomen and men, and by the countless volunteers who have passed their love of hurling and camogie on to the future generations.”