Waterford councillors pass motions to promote Irish language and national anthem

Waterford councillors have passed motions on the promotion of the Irish language and the national anthem.

The motions were proposed at the February plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council.

The first, which called for an increase in the provision of education delivered through Irish, was proposed by Labour councillor John Pratt.

It read as follows: “That this council / local authority calls upon Government to enact legislation to systematically, sustainably, and steadily increase the provision of Irish-medium education so that future generations of Irish children will have the opportunity to be educated through their national language, if they so desire”.

Cllr Pratt said that while most people have learnt Irish in school, many more should be fluent in the language as a result.

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The motion was seconded by his party colleague, Cllr Thomas Phelan, who emphasised the importance of gaeilscoils locally and right across the country.

The motion was subsequently passed unanimously with the support of all members present.

A second motion was put forward by Sinn Féin councillor Donnchadh Mulcahy, which called for the mandatory teaching of the national anthem in primary schools.

It read: “That Waterford City & County Council notes the importance of Amhrán na bhFiann, Ireland’s national anthem, as a symbol of our national identity, shared history, and civic life.

“The council further recognises the role that schools play in fostering civic awareness, cultural understanding, and respect for national traditions among young people.

“Therefore, this council resolves to write to the Minister for Education, calling on the Department of Education to examine the introduction of a mandatory requirement that all primary and post-primary school pupils are taught the words, meaning, and appropriate performance of the national anthem, Amhrán na bhFiann, as part of the school curriculum.”

The motion was seconded by Cllr Kate O’Mahoney, who said the anthem was not just about national identity but also about heritage and culture.

Fianna Fáil councillor John O’Leary also supported the motion, describing the anthem as “hugely important”.

He told the meeting that he attends a lot of GAA matches, at which spectators don’t always give the “due respect” the anthem deserves.

Independent councillor Joe Kelly said the motion was “very timely” and described the anthem as “a key cornerstone of Ireland”.

He cited the number of foreign nationals now living in the country and emphasised the importance of them learning the anthem.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil councillor Jason Murphy joked that the council should note the reference to his party in the opening line of the anthem.

At the end of the discussion, the motion was again passed unanimously with the support of all councillors present.