Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said today the project of creating a modern Ireland based on equality as set out in the first Dáil remains incomplete.
Speaking ahead of a special programme of events organised by Sinn Féin to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the first Dáil, Mr Ó Caoláin said: “Modern Ireland faces many challenges.
“Working families face heavy financial burdens, the vulnerable remain insufficiently protected, the economy is under developed and Border counties continue to carry the economic and social burden of partition,” he said
The party has organised a series of events for today, including a photographic exhibition in the Mansion House and an historical walking tour of the surrounding streets.
The party will also unveil a commemorative publication, which it plans to send to all primary schools, illustrating the historic events that led up to the first Dáil.
It will also host a talk on the events of the first Dáil; these will include presentations by Siptu president Jack O’Connor on the centenary of the Irish Transport and General Workers Union (ITGWU), and a keynote address by Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams,.
Mr Ó Caoláin said: “Equality was the basis of the democratic programme adopted by the first Dáil.The programme set out progressive social and economic goals based on the principles of the 1916 Proclamation and articulated by Pádraig Mac Piarais and James Connolly.
"Today we must continue to fight for these goals. Today’s An Chéad Dáil events are not only a commemoration of the brave men and women of 1919, they are also a celebration of what Irish people achieved 90 years ago and their project modern Ireland has yet to complete.”