Leitrim’s National Day of Commemoration takes place on July 9

A National Day of Commemoration takes place each year on Sunday closest to July 11, the date on which, in 1921, the Anglo-Irish Truce was agreed that brought the Irish War of Independence to an end.

Being organised by Leitrim County Council's Decade of Centenaries committee, Leitrim's National Day of Commemoration event will take place this Sunday, July 9, at 2.30pm at Manorhamilton's Garden of Remembrance and Reflection.

The event focuses on commemorating all men and women from Leitrim or connected with Leitrim who died due to conflict from 1914-1924. It is a day of pride and respect, which gives us all an opportunity to remember those who have died as a result of conflict and reflect on its traumatic and enduring legacy.

The period 1912-1923 shaped Ireland forever, and 2023 will bring the official Decade of Centenaries Programme (2012-2023) to a close. The decade has allowed us to gain new perspectives on events and the many challenges and complexities of the period. It has provided us with an opportunity to engage with our past.

At this significant time in the state's history, it is important to reflect on the respectful engagement that has taken place collaboratively and inclusively to explore all elements of our history and broaden our understanding of the events that occurred. These events have left a significant imprint on our collective memory and on the local landscape.

Through national and local collections, new research and publications have become available that document the impact of events on local communities. Local history societies across the County have been central to this activity, and there has been widespread public interest and parish and community participation.

Events have involved many different narrative threads, but each has been measured, respectful and inclusive, which supports the strengthening of peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland.

A special commemorative booklet entitled 'Leitrim Remembers' has been compiled by the well-known and respected local historian Padraig Griffin. It will be available on the day and afterwards through Leitrim Library's Local Studies Department.