Ireland’s Presidents And Their Role In Cultural Life

Because Ireland’s presidents rely on support from their local communities to vote them into office, they tend to be far more involved in local grass roots initiatives. Their role in terms of the cultural life of Ireland is one of supporting and motivating the continued preservation and continuation of traditional Irish culture.

President Mary McAleese, the 8th president of Ireland, clearly takes her role in cultural life seriously, supporting local cultural events, festivals and activities throughout Ireland. Her presence at local events, from school recitals to international exhibitions, ensures that her support of the arts and culture of Ireland are visible to all members of the community. Her patronage of local cultural organizations, attendance at events and support of cultural activities actively encourages participation and preservation of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.

This participation starts from the ground up, including visiting schools and receiving visits from school groups. The president actively engages people in the preservation and continuation of the cultural life of Ireland, ensuring that she motivates continued efforts in this arena with her encouragement and enthusiasm. Whether attending a school recital or the opening of an international exhibition, by her presence, President McAleese is far more than just a figurehead.

The president’s support for culture in Ireland extends into her official capacity, representing Ireland’s interests beyond her borders. Accompanied by Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Film Board, her visit to Hollywood in 2008 lent stature to a visit intended to showcase Ireland’s talent and suitability as an international film location. Representing Ireland’s arts and culture is an important facet of the president’s role, helping to attract foreign visitors and tourists, investment and job creation to the country. President McAleese attended the European Cultural Foundation National Conference with similar goals in mind. National cultural awards such as Ireland’s Laureate for Children’s Literature are presented by the president, lending credence to their purpose.

Mary Robinson, Ireland’s 7th president, was instrumental in forming the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, charged with protecting and preserving Ireland’s historic and cultural heritage and ensuring that it continues to be supported both by government and the community at large. The government’s Art Council actively supports the graphic and visual arts, sponsoring competitions, festivals and supporting local artists’ efforts.

The preservation and continued thriving of a country’s culture depends very much on its youth, for it is they who must carry the torch from one generation to the next. The Irish Presidents and their role in cultural life help to encourage children and the youth to support their cultural background, participate in the cultural activities of their birthplace, and preserve their history.

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