A REPORT from the Seanad Public Consultation Committee has recommended that new citizens of Ireland be encouraged to learn the national anthem.
The recommendation is among a number included in the new report on the status, treatment and use of the anthem, which currently has no formal legislative recognition by the State.
The report also says the Irish abroad should ‘become acquainted’ with the anthem, while a copy of the anthem and the protocols for its use should be issued with all Irish passports.
'National pride'
“Irish citizens at home and abroad, as well as new citizens of Ireland, should be encouraged to become acquainted with the National Anthem to add to a sense of national pride and belonging,” says the report.
It also recommends producing a phonetic version for those not familiar with the Irish language.
The other recommendations in the report include developing protocols in relation to the use of the anthem, developing an Irish Sign Language (ISL) version and providing all schools with the anthem in Irish, English and ISL to assist learning.
WATCH: The historic first ever public performance of the new Irish Sign Language version of the national anthem Amhrán na bhFiann (In full) pic.twitter.com/BTbl0dfey3
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It also recommends schools hold events on the eve of St Patrick’s Day to celebrate the anthem, Ireland’s national flag and the anthems and flags of children of different backgrounds.
Seanad deputy chair and Committee Chairman, Senator Paul Coghlan, said: “One way or another the melody of our National Anthem threads through the hearts of our people, including all of our new citizens who stand proudly when it is being played at citizenship ceremonies, and we know it as our national song and one that is very precious to us.
'Precious'
“Like all precious things, it is worthy of protection and care.
“I believe that the recommendations set out in this Report give expression to the absolute pride we all have in our National Anthem.
“I hope the recommendations will be taken on board by the Government.”
While the lyrics to The Soldier’s Song were written over a century ago and the Irish language translation Amhrán na bhFiann was published in 1923, the anthem does not have any formal recognition in legislation by the State and is no longer protected by copyright.
The Irish language version has never been formally adopted by the State.
The recommended protocols in relation to the use of the anthem will grant the national song formal recognition, says the report.
You can read the full report by clicking here.
