Fianna Fáil Senator proposes Irish independence day

The bill has passed second stage in the Seanad with the support of the Government

A Fianna Fáil-led proposal to recognise Ireland's declaration of independence has passed second stage in the Seanad with the support of the Government.

Fianna Fáil Senator Keith Swanick tabled the Private Members Bill which would "formally introduce a Declaration of Independence Day on January 21 each year."

The bill proposes formally recognising 21 January as "Declaration of Independence Day" as it was on this date in 1919 that the inaugural meeting of the first Dáil took place in the Round Room at Dublin's Mansion House.

Members of the first Dáil in 1919 (Pic: RTÉ Stills Library)

Senator Swanick said he has always been struck that the establishment of the first Dáil has not been recollected or commemorated properly.

He argued that Ireland should have a national independence day similar to other countries.

He said that "no one party should attempt to claim ownership of the first Dáil or the declaration of independence. Many of the political figures went on to play significant roles in Irish life including future taoisigh, presidents and ministers.

"We should all unite around this one act of national self-determination because the period that follows gets more complex and more decisive with the War of Independence, the Treaty and the Civil War."

He explained that there is no plan to legislate for this day to become a public holiday.

"But if we did pass this legislation, it would allow schools, public bodies and community groups an opportunity to commemorate this hugely important day in a very appropriate way," he added.

Sinn Féin's Niall Ó Donnghaile supported the bill and said he does not believe that if Declaration of Independence Day was a bank holiday that it would be detrimental to our economy.

"If we were to do it right and plan it right, we could actually add to and bolster the economy," he said.

Fianna Fáil senator Diarmuid Wilson said "we are yet only a 26 county nation ... I look forward to some day in the very near future when there will be a 32 county Irish Republic."

Later, Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Heather Humphreys said the Government will not be opposing Senator Swanick's bill.

She said: "The convening of the first Dáil on 21st January 1919 will be one of the key historical events to be marked by the State in 2019.

"We have reflected on our journey over the past 100 years and imagined our legacy for future generations."

Committee stage of the bill will be taken in the Upper House next Tuesday.