Celebrations in Tipperary town to mark 25 years of Muintir na Tíre.
Muintir na Tíre was founded by Canon Hayes in 1937 with the objective of encouraging communities to get involved in social, economic, cultural and environmental development. The organisation celebrates its silver jubilee with a ceremony in Tipperary town in the presence of Éamon de Valera on his first visit to the town as president.
The Marian Hall was filled with officials and members of Muintir na Tíre for the occasion. Introduced by Fr Morrissey, Denis Murray Chairman of the Urban District Council initiates welcomes An tUachtarán na hÉireann Mr Éamon de Valera to Tipperary town to honour the late founder of Muintir na Tíre Canon Hayes.
Denis Murray pays tribute to the success of Muintir na Tíre since its foundation and the contribution made by President de Valera to the economic, cultural and social betterment of Ireland. He also prays that Ireland will be reunited in the president's lifetime. The Tipperary Town Clerk Mr RA McCarthy reads an address of welcome to President de Valera in both Irish and English.
Ireland honours you as patriot, soldier, statesman and leader and as the last surviving commandant of that noble and selfless band who asserted Ireland's right to national freedom and sovereignty on that historic Easter morning of 1916. The Irish race the world over recognises you as the living symbol of resurgent Ireland and is deeply indebted to you for your unceasing efforts to ensure that the ancient tongue is once again cherished, loved and spoken.
Speaking in Irish President de Valera pays tribute to the excellent work of Muintir na Tíre and hopes that the organisation continues to grow and strive in achieving the objectives of the founder Canon Hayes.
Archbishop Thomas Morris of Cashel points out the unique feature of Muintir na Tíre which was established from a non-governmental voluntary movement.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 18 February 1962.
