50 years ago last January, Ireland officially joined the European Economic Community – which later became the European Union.
Today, May 9, is known as ‘Europe Day’ – a celebration of peace and unity on the continent that dates back to 1964.
Celebrations and ceremonies are taking place across the country to mark this and Holy Family Senior School in Portlaoise was well represented.
Students from Sixth, Fourth and Third Class came together in the hall to showcase all that Europe has to offer.
Mr Sean Finlay is the head of the Blue Star Programme in the school which aims to teach the children about European cultures and the European Union through creative projects and activities.
He invited some special guests to address the children with Cllrs Thomasina Connell, Marie Tuohy and Catherine Fitzgerald plus TDs Charlie Flanagan and Sean Fleming were present.
Cllr Connell, who is the Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, told the children about the overwhelming support that Irish people have for the EU.
She said: “Ireland is both a committed and an active member of the European Union with 92% of Irish society approving of our membership of the EU.
“In Ireland we have one of the highest rates of approval within the member states and for a small country like Ireland, an island on the West Coast of Europe we have gained so much.
“There has been huge economic and social progress over the years, with supports to farmers, the rights of women to name but a few.
“The European Union established the entitlement for citizens of other EU Countries to come to Ireland to live here and now 20% of those who live on this island were not born here with the majority hailing from other EU Member states.
“It is important on days like today to remember the values of the European Union which we embrace so well here in Ireland in our society where inclusion, tolerance, justice solidarity and non-discrimination prevail.
“Irelands future lies in Europe and today on Europe Day I couldn’t be prouder to be both Irish and be European. Ireland’s identity in Europe is embodied in the saying ‘Ni neart go cur le cheile’ which means, We Are Better Together.”
TD Sean Fleming, Minister for State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, outlined to the children how being part of the EU allowed Ireland access to Covid-19 vaccines, abolished internet roaming charges and gave people the option to study award.
While Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan explained the role of the European Court of Justice, outlined various laws that have been introduced and how the EU has worked to protect women’s rights.
Holy Family Senior School is extremely diverse and contains pupils from 33 countries with 32 different languages spoken.
Students and teachers prepared and presented some beautiful foods from across Europe.
These treats were enjoyed by all after everyone present engaged in a handshake for Europe Day.
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