Dáil Éireann to mark International Day of Democracy with statements in Dáil and seminar in Leinster House

In 2007, the United Nations declared September 15th International Day of Democracy to encourage the ‘promotion and consolidation of Democracy’ worldwide.

Ceann Comhairle, Seán Barrett, TD, said: “The International Day of Democracy is meant both to celebrate democracy and to serve as a reminder that the need to promote and protect democracy is as urgent now as ever.

While it is easy for some to be cynical about politics and parliament, events around the world over the past year, such as the ‘Arab Spring’, have demonstrated that people want free and democratic leadership.

Here we have been lucky that the Irish parliament has remained independent, free and democratic since the foundation of the State. And we should not take that for granted. In fact, we should celebrate the fact that we have always retained the freedom to elect our own parliament.

That is why I am happy that this Dáil will join many other parliaments and devote time to mark International Day of Democracy.”

To observe this very important day, members will be invited to contribute on the floor of Dáil Éireann during statements that will take place at 12.40pm.

This will be followed by a seminar in Leinster House at 5pm. Professor Michael Marsh of Trinity College Dublin will present findings from his major study of the General Election 2011. The study represents a comprehensive analysis of the recent General Election and provides a contemporary picture of what Irish citizens expect from their national parliament and its members.

It is the third nation-wide survey of the attitudes and opinions of Irish voters. The goal of the project is to both explain election outcomes and the choices of individual voters. This study was directed by Professor Marsh in consultation with political scientists from other third level institutions in Ireland. Over 1,800 interviews were conducted by Red C with a random sample of electors.

International Day of Democracy will also be marked by an Oireachtas National Essay Competition for 5th year students. Details will be announced in October.

To attend this event you must be accredited by the Houses of the Oireachtas. To arrange for accreditation for the event or for further information please contact:

Ciaran Brennan,
Houses of the Oireachtas,
Communications Unit,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2

P: +3531 618 3903
M: 086-0496518
F: +3531 618 4551