Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yes, before No. 1. I propose that the Cathaoirleach would then send the necessary letters on behalf of the House. This is the last month of the decade of commemorations relating to 1916. The National Park Service of the Department of the Interior in the United States has afforded Ireland a distinct honour by having a replica of the 1916 Proclamation placed inside the Washington monument. It is one of only 17 countries to be given such an honour and only five plaques have been placed within the Washington monument in the past 75 years. President Michael D. Higgins gave the plaque on behalf of the citizens of Ireland at home and abroad and it is hoped that the Taoiseach, on behalf of the nation, will attend there next March to formally dedicate it. I hope the Cathaoirleach, with the acceptance of the Leader, will send the letters to those in the United States who helped with that particular proposal.

Finally, I wish everyone a happy Christmas, including Senator Norris.