Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

We can do that as soon as possible.

Senator Bacik also mentioned labour law. One of the people on the expert group is Mr. Francis Devine. He was President of the Irish Labour History Society. He will provide us with valuable advice on the suffragette movement and the Labour movement at the time.

I agree with Senator Bacik's point about involving young children. In many cases, young children do not understand what happened in 1916. It has gone out of conversation at home. When we were young, we were brought up believing different versions of events but we all knew that 1916 happened. We all had great respect for the men of 1916. Afterwards, family views divided. If Senators ask children, they will be amazed at the level of knowledge of 1916. It is important we use the period to reconnect with young people, even in preschool, about the events of this period.

Senator Norris came up with a very good idea for the celebration of the Irish Republic in conjunction with other republics, such as France and the USA. It is a strong possibility and I will bring it to the attention of the Taoiseach. I have heard the view discussed that 1916 created divisions in this country through our celebration and our approach to it. In a way, it is suggested that it incited some division, particularly in Northern Ireland. However, I do not agree that how we celebrated 1916 is the reason for the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

There were other reasons. We have moved on. As a number of Senators have said, the commemorative displays at that anniversary were to show that we had arrived. We can now celebrate the commemorative decade in a totally different way. In spite of the criticisms of the position in which we now find ourselves, we are in a much better place as a country than we were 100 years ago. There are still opportunities for people in the country. We should not blame others for not achieving at this time. We have had significant achievements in a number of areas and should not denigrate ourselves now.

In response to Senator Norris, let me say this commemorative decade gives us the opportunity to develop a new programme and open a discussion on our history. Senator Bradford referred to the very good idea of Australia remembers. I am aware that Australia is putting a very special programme in place for the commemoration of the First World War. We are developing links as we have a significant connection with them, when one considers that 8,000 Irish men died on the Australian side in the First World War. Our programme for the Great War will align itself very closely with the Australian commemorations, especially with the commemoration of the Gallipoli campaign in 2015. I totally agree with the point made by Senator Ned O'Sullivan that no party has ownership of the foundation of the nation. All political parties owe their origins to 1916 and the years prior to it. With the establishment of an all-party committee, I am trying to be as inclusive as possible and all the good ideas raised by Members will be discussed. Senator Daly has come up with some very good ideas, and today Senator Bacik referred to the Suffragette movement and I will certainly work with her on that. It was suggested in the House that the life of Éamon de Valera was not being commemorated in some way in Dublin. I would be glad to see Mr. de Valera honoured on the centenary of the Rising.