Pádraig Ó Céidigh (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I commend Senator Mark Daly for bringing this important issue to public attention and initiating a proper and full debate on it. The passion the students have shown for the country through the national anthem makes me proud. Like Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill, I strongly support an ISL version of Amhrán na bhFiann being made available. I know that the Minister of State is as passionate an Irishman as I am or as any of the students is, particularly through his engagement and involvement with the GAA. I look forward to visiting his club. He referred to education which is important to all of us and the gap in learning and understanding the real meaning of the words of the national anthem. Will he give a commitment that he will engage with the Minister for Education and Skills on including Amhrán na bhFiann in the curriculum to be taught in schools?

The Stars and Stripes always flies outside any public building or school in America. The Tricolour is every bit as important and I strongly suggest we do the same. Such a measure would not cost much money and would be important. The more European and global we get, our identity and who we are as a people become important because we have something unique and special, as highlighted by the young ladies and gentlemen present.

Like Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill, I would be more inclined to create legislation to deal with the national anthem rather than taking the copyright route, although I know that varies with the Minister of State's view to some degree. Will Dr. O'Dell elaborate on his Bill?