National Day of Commemoration

The National Day of Commemoration is held on the Sunday closest to the 11th July, the date on which, in 1921, the Anglo-Irish Truce was agreed. The event normally takes place in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, but on two occasions in the past it has on taken place in Collins Barracks to facilitate maintenance works in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham. It comprises of a multi-faith service of prayer and military ceremony commemorating all those Irishmen and Irishwomen who died in past wars or on service with the United Nations.

During the ceremony the Taoiseach invites the President to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Ireland. Other invited guests include members of the Government, Council of State, elected Representatives,

Diplomatic Corps, Judiciary, relatives of 1916 participants and a large number of Veterans' Organisations.

The ceremony is open to the public, is held outdoors and commences at 10:45 a.m.

Department with lead responsibility: Department of the Taoiseach.

Email protocol@taoiseach.gov.ie for further information.