Campaign to teach national anthem in schools
A campaign to have the National Anthem taught in all secondary schools moved up a step today.
Martin Brady, a Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin north east, said he was escalating his bid for recognition for the Anthem with the presentation of copies of Amhran and bhFiann and the 1916 proclamation to students in Donaghmede, Dublin 13.
“Since I first suggested that the teaching of the Anthem and its history should be compulsory I have received enormous public support from across the country. I have been particularly overwhelmed by the positive reaction from young people,” he said.
“By presenting copies of the Anthem and the Proclamation to students at Grange College, Donaghmede, I hope to play a small role in efforts to increase public knowledge about both Amhran na bhFiann and the events of 1916.”
A week before the commemoration services for the 1916 Rising, Mr Brady said it was an appropriate time to remind people of the sacrifices other people made for the freedoms enjoyed today.
“Amhran na bhFiann was sung by the heroes of 1916 during their darkest hour in the GPO, we owe it to their memory to ensure the Anthem and its history is taught to future generations,” he said.
