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The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD, and the Minister for State for Tourism and Sport, Brendan Griffin TD, have today welcomed the decision of UNESCO to grant Hurling and Camogie the prestigious status of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Minister Ross said: “It is absolutely fitting that hurling and camogie have been added to UNESCO's list of protected cultural activities around the world. Arguably one of the fastest, most exciting and skilful field games in the world, Hurling has been part of Irish life for centuries.

Today’s announcement will further assist in keeping our national sports alive and raise more awareness of it around the world as well as ensuring its continued popularity. Hurling and camogie are played not just in Dublin, but in Dubai and Durban also. In addition to heritage value, this magnificent sport attracts fans from all over the world who wish to see it played on “native soil” thus supporting our vibrant tourism industry.

By achieving international recognition, Hurling will be recognised as not just a game, but also as an Irish tradition steeped in history and Irish pride going back to the days of Cú Chulainn and beyond. Hurling is a central part of our Irish cultural and sporting heritage and today’s acknowledgement of that is something to celebrate and be proud of.

I want to congratulate the GAA and the Camogie Association for all the work on the successful submission to UNESCO and wish them the best in their next few centuries of play.”

Minister Griffin said: “It is very welcome news to hear that UNESCO has added hurling and camogie to the list of protected cultural activities. We have always known that hurling and camogie are a strong part of our culture and heritage and I want to commend the Department of Culture, the GAA and the Camogie Association on the successful submission to UNESCO.”