Ceann Comhairle hosts ‘A Gathering for Peace’ to mark UN International Day of Living Together in Peace

The theme of this event aligned with the UN International Day of Living Together in Peace which is designated to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding and solidarity across the world.

The Ceann Comhairle held a one minute pause for peace which was observed by attendees.

A youth choir, Cór na nÓg performed songs at the event which was attended by Faith Leaders, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Oireachtas Members and the Former Members Association.

Speaking at the event, the Ceann Comhairle said: “Following on from the Pause for Peace, on St. Brigid’s Day, 1st February when we here in Leinster House paused for peace and called on other international parliaments to do likewise, a request which was considered by many, we today come together on UN International Day of Living Together in Peace."

"The UN International Day of Living Together in Peace is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on, and acknowledge, that living together in peace is about accepting differences, and having the ability to listen to, recognise, respect and appreciate others, as well as living in a peaceful and united way." 

“This day aims to uphold the desire to live and act together in order to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity and harmony. Further, it is an occasion which brings people together from many different backgrounds.”

“We also join in the aim to promote the essential empathy that constitutes a shared humanity, stresses the importance of learning from the past, and the taking of the necessary actions for a more peaceful future. Together in Peace as a means of regularly mobilising the efforts of the international community to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and solidarity.”

“Our attitude and our approach to living together in peace is therefore born out of our own historical experience. We recognise the importance of respect and understanding for religious and cultural diversity throughout the world, of choosing dialogue and negotiation over confrontation, and of working together. As I reflect on today’s theme, it is fair to say that the world of today is in desperate need of hope." 

“While we might have diverse backgrounds and perspectives, we all have the same desire for peace. Together, we can build a world with fewer conflicts and less violence, one realized through solidarity, tolerance and reconciliation." 

“On this International Day of Living Together in Peace, as we stand here in the presence of the busts of the great John Hume and David Trimble, the Northern Ireland politicians and Nobel Peace Prize laureates, let us contemplate John Hume’s words, as one of the architects of the Good Friday Agreement, reminding us to recognise and celebrate diversity as the foundation for peace –“Difference is the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity." 

ENDS

Photography of the event is available on the Oireachtas Flickr Account.