Seanad debates

Monday, 12 December 2022

An Cathaoirleach:    Established in the midst of a bitter, tragic and divisive Civil War in which many families lost loved ones, the Seanad played a role in establishing and consolidating the democratic institutions of our State. It was under this shadow of war the Senators took their seats in this Chamber on 11 December 1922. Only four days earlier on 7 December serving Deputy, Seán Hales, was shot dead on his way to this building to oversee the election of Senators. On the following day four republican leaders, Rory O'Connor, Liam Mellows, Joe McKelvey and Richard Barrett, were executed in response. Five people dead in two days yet, just three days after that and despite very real personal danger, 60 Senators arrived here at Leinster House to take their seats in a demonstration of their commitment to the democratic process. Between November 1922 and February 1923, 37 Senators had their homes destroyed. They were intimidated and some were kidnapped but none resigned.

Reflection and Prayer.

Machnamh agus Paidir.