Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, condemn the bombings in Derry at the weekend. It was horrific and frightening to see the videos on the news.

I compliment all who were involved in organising yesterday's event. It was very appropriate and went off really well. I attended another event this morning and I took taxis to and from my destination. Both drivers had watched yesterday's proceedings on television and were very emotional in expressing their thoughts on them. Many families and descendants of the Members of the First Dáil were present yesterday. One of my neighbours is a descendant of Michael Colivet. It was lovely to meet the Collins family there. Another event is being held in the Mansion House today, with students from 15 schools engaging in a debate on Dáil 100.This is to be commended. I was over there this morning because two of my neighbouring schools were successful in having two pupils selected, namely, Megan from Gaelcholáiste Luimní and Katie from Laurel Hill Coláiste. It is good that they were both from all-Irish-speaking schools. It is to be commended that they were selected among the 15 to speak. I heard some of what they had to say and their speeches were fantastic. One spoke about the harmful effects of alcohol and the other one questioned where our Irish has gone to. They were two topical debates. I congratulate all those involved. It is good that the youth are continuing the debate today.