Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ní bheidh me ró-fhada. Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire. The Minister's proposal to engage with the diaspora is a wonderful idea, as we all know members of the diaspora in various parts of the world. They will play a significant part in the commemoration.

As the Minister indicated, the period from 1912 to 1922 was one of the most eventful in our country's history. From the campaign for home rule, the 1913 Lock-out, the First World War and the Easter Rising of 1916 to the foundation of the Free State, this was a decade of immense upheaval and change in our country. I agree it is of the utmost importance that the dignity of those who suffered and died be paramount and that relatives be given pride of place in remembering family members. The formation of Cumann na mBan, which cannot be overemphasised, was absolutely vital in the empowerment, both politically and socially, of women in this country. It is very important that women's participation in the Easter Rising continues to be fully acknowledged as we reach this very important year in our history.

A national initiative led by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht will develop, co-ordinate and deliver a programme of activity to honour and remember those who fought and died in the Easter Rising. I commend the Minister and her Department on this programme. The emphasis is on the participation of youth and communities, and there is no doubt that each parish and community in the country has a contribution to make. I spoke with two young girls from the grammar school in Dundalk ten days ago and asked them what was their favourite subject at school. A previous contributor mentioned how history is taught in our schools. I was delighted that both of these girls told me history was their favourite subject. They had been here two years ago and received a tour of the Parliament. That was part of the reason. One of the girls asked me if I had a history book that she could read at the weekend. The girls and the rest of their class love history because their teacher made it fun to learn and they looked forward to the class. It was great to see two young girls with such an interest.

History teachers in our schools for the next year or year and a half have a part to play in emphasising the history of 1916 and getting school pupils involved. I cannot overemphasise how pleased I was to hear that two young, attractive girls who were 13 or 14 are interested in history and following through on it. Ba mhaith liom comhghairdeas a dhéanamh leis an Aire.