Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This morning, I would like to wish everyone a happy St. Brigid's Day. Brigid was born in Louth 1,500 years ago, so we are very happy that she is being recognised to the extent that she is being recognised. I congratulate Louth County Council's arts office and tourism team, Dundalk BIDS and all the community groups around County Louth who have come together and made the celebration of Brigid 1500 a real showstopper in north Louth. The "northern lights" are happening in Dundalk's Market Square, and if Senators have not seen it on Facebook or social media, I recommend that they at least look it up but also attend. There is a light show every night until next week. There are Brigid: Lady of Lighttheatrical performances, one of which we saw last night. I have to say it was uplifting and absolutely incredible, with a mixture of opera and Irish dancing. There is such creativity, and it is original. It is the work of the arts office in Dundalk and An Táin Arts Centre. I am really proud to have had a small part in encouraging that and working with them all to make sure we had Brigid 1500 celebrations.

In all the hype, celebration and modernity of festivals, we should all think about what St. Brigid's Day means. It is all about peace and healing. It is the first day of spring today. It is the shedding of the old and walking into the new. We should all walk forward in the spirit of St. Brigid today and every day, and try to remember that peace and healing. We have a world in conflict, and I think we should embrace that.