asked the Taoiseach whether the Government has under consideration any commemoration in 1971 of the establishment of the Twenty-six Counties State; if he will outline the nature and purpose of such commemoration.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Establishment of State.
2.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative.
The first meeting, on the 21st January, 1919, of the First Dáil Éireann is regarded as the event which marked the establishment of the State.
Has the Taoiseach anything to add about the purpose of such a commemoration next year commemorating the establishment of this Twenty-six Counties State? Does he think this would be in the interests of the harmony which he desires? This is a desire to which he has given frequent expression. Does he think the commemoration of such a truncated State next year would be in the best interests of that harmony?
The Deputy's question seems to be rather paradoxical. I do not see what kind of answer I can give.