Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Certainly the date 21 January 1919 was very much a pivotal day in modern Irish history. I thank Senator Swanick for his work on this Bill. As we approach the centenary of this important event, it is fitting that we recognise the date of 21 January as Declaration of Independence Day.It is also positive because the public holiday would not have an economic impact but would allow us to properly commemorate the sitting of the First Dáil.