A new project hopes to help people living abroad to trace their Irish ancestry and discover links to Ireland.
Taoiseach Charles Haughey formally launched the Irish Genealogical Project and Irish Ancestors Homecoming Festival.
The launch was attended by representatives from the International Fund for Ireland, FÁS, Bord Fáilte, Clans of Ireland and the Irish Family History Foundation.
Charles Haughey described the venture as one of enormous potential and hoped that it would help to bring Irish culture and identity to a worldwide audience.
The project involved the establishment of 35 local research centres providing access to computerised information to help people trace their Irish ancestry. When the project is completed, it is expected to employ around 200 people as well as creating additional jobs.
The first event will be the Irish Ancestors Homecoming due to take place in May 1992. It will be a month of events linking Irish clans with their distant relatives abroad.
Rory O'Connor, Chairman of the Clans of Ireland, says that Irish people have a tremendous desire to discover their roots. He also points out that
For the first time, a north south perspective has been brought into this great heritage movement.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 March 1991. The reporter is Jeri Ward.
