merrion street

On 21st January 1919, Dáil Éireann met for the first time. Today, the Dáil will sit in the Mansion House to mark the centenary of this inaugural public meeting of Dáil Éireann.

The event will include an address by President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, reflections on the centenary and a Joint Sitting of both Houses of the Oireachtas in the Round Room of the Mansion House. A Centenary Declaration will be signed by the Ceann Comhairle and the Cathaoirleach and presented to Anna Powell and Alex Gorman - representatives of Comhairle na nÓg, the national body of child and youth councils - to symbolise the continued adherence to the principles of parliamentary democracy.

Minister Zappone said, “It is wonderful to have 2 fantastic young people be part of todays commemoration event. Young people are paving the way for the future and it is incredible to think what they might achieve in the coming 100 years!”

Anna Powell from Tipperary Comhairle said, “it’s an honour and a privilege to be invited to this centenary celebration of the first Dáil and to be a part of history”.

Alex Gorman from Longford Comhairle said “I am extremely grateful to be a part of this event as a member of Comhairle, and for the inclusion of the young people’s voices of Ireland”.

Editors notes:

Comhairle na nÓg, which began in 2002, are local councils for children and young people (aged 12-18) that give them a voice on the development of local policies and services. They are the recognised national structure for participation by children and young people in decision-making in all 31 local authorities and are supported by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.