Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and thank him for taking this matter. Last night, I attended an event in O'Connell House to celebrate the creation of the State as a republic on 18 April 1949. The event in question highlights the need to mark momentous changes that have occurred in Ireland. A significant number of centenaries are due to be celebrated in the coming years. Those centenaries relate to the period 1918 to 1924, when major changes occurred in this country whereby we went from being ruled from London to Independence and the creation of the Free State. However, there were also other significant historical events that occurred here during the period. My request this morning is to know the plans being put in place to celebrate those events.

The period in question was difficult for people living in certain areas and it is important that we deal with any celebrations in a sensitive way. It is in that context that I am seeking to discover the plans being put in place in order that these important historical events will be marked in such a way and that there will be recognition for those who brought about the changes that occurred in this country at the time. As an independent country, Ireland enjoys significant international recognition and has made a major contribution on the global front. It is in that light that I am seeking clarification regarding the plans that are being put in place.