Write a commentThe recent announcement that UNESCO has recognised the cultural importance of Camogie and Hurling has been welcomed by local MLA, Justin McNulty.
The lengthy named Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage at United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation met in Mauritius last week and Hurling/ Camogie was added to the "Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity"
The UNESCO website sums up the sport thus "Hurling, or Camogie (a form of Hurling played by women), is a field game played by two teams which dates back 2,000 years and features strongly in Irish mythology, most notably in the epic saga of Cú Chulainn. It is played throughout the island of Ireland, particularly in more fertile agricultural areas, as well as overseas."
Commenting on the recognition Mr McNulty explained, "To those of us who have always valued and appreciated our Gaelic Games and the cultural traditions that come with them, the recognition of Hurling and Camogie this week by UNESCO is a very esteemed and welcome development.
"There is very little difference between the games of Hurling and Camogie. They are a incredible skillful and athletic games and given the energetic Championship we just witnessed in 2018 this listing by UNESCO will be a boost our National games and will further promote and protect Hurling and Camogie for generations to come.
"In recognising the games, UNESCO said the new designation for the games “seeks to enhance visibility for the traditions and know-how of communities without recognising standards of excellence or exclusivity."
