The publication of the 1926 Census marks a defining moment in Ireland’s historical record, offering a vivid and deeply personal insight into life during the formative years of the Irish Free State.
Conducted just four years after the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922, the 1926 Census captured a population of approximately 2.97 million people. It reflects a country emerging from a decade of profound change, including the Easter Rising, the War of Independence and the Civil War, and beginning to shape its national identity.
Taoiseach Mr Micheál Martin described the release as an opportunity for people to “step back in time” and connect with their families, communities and the everyday lives of those who lived nearly a century ago. He highlighted the census as a bold and visionary undertaking by a young state committed to nation-building.
The digitisation project, completed over three years, ensures the long-term preservation of these records while making them accessible to historians, genealogists and the wider public. Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Mr Patrick O’Donovan said the release is of particular importance to people across Ireland and the global Irish diaspora seeking to explore their heritage.
Director of the National Archives Ms Orlaith McBride emphasised that the census represents more than statistics, describing it as “the story of us”, a record of individuals, families and communities whose lives collectively shaped our modern Ireland.
To mark the release, a major exhibition titled The Story of Us: Independent Ireland and the 1926 Census has opened at Dublin Castle. Running until August 2027, the exhibition explores life in Ireland in 1926 through original records, photographs and immersive displays before touring internationally and across Ireland.
The 1926 Census stands as a vital resource for understanding Ireland’s past, offering people at home and abroad, an opportunity to rediscover their roots and engage with the lived experiences of a generation that helped shape the nation.
Irish Touring Exhibition As part of its national tour, the exhibition will visit Thurles, Co. Tipperary at Source Arts Centre, Thurles, from 2nd – 21st November 2026, bringing this important chapter of Ireland’s history directly to local Tipperary communities.
Ireland’s constitutional machinery has been set in motion in a way that is both rare and yet deeply significant. Following the passage of the International Protection Bill 2026 through the Oireachtas, President Mrs Catherine Connolly has taken the notable step of convening the Council of State to consider its constitutionality.
This development is more than procedural, it represents a critical checkpoint in Irish democracy, where law, rights, and constitutional safeguards intersect.
The Background: Controversial Reform. For those less familiar; the International Protection Bill 2026 is a major piece of Irish legislation designed to overhaul the State’s asylum system by aligning it with the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. It introduces faster, time-limited procedures for processing protection applications, while streamlining appeals through a new tribunal structure, thus strengthening border and return procedures, and revises rules such as family reunification, all with the aim of making decisions more efficient, while maintaining compliance with EU and human rights standards.
However, the Bill has not passed without controversy. Critics, including human rights bodies, have raised concerns about:
Expanded detention powers.
Reduced access to legal advice at early stages.
Restrictions on family reunification.
These concerns, coupled with the fast-tracked legislative process, have heightened fears that the law may face constitutional challenges.
The Irish President’s Intervention. After the Bill passed all stages in the Oireachtas, it was sent to the Irish President for signature. Instead of signing immediately, President Mrs Connolly has exercised her constitutional discretion by convening the Council of State.
This meeting, scheduled for Monday next at Áras an Uachtaráin, is specifically to consider whether the Bill should be referred to the Supreme Court under Article 26 of the Constitution.
This step is significant for two reasons: It signals serious constitutional concern about the legislation. It activates one of the most powerful, yet rarely used tools available to the President.
Understanding Article 26: A Powerful Constitutional Safeguard. Under Article 26, the President may refer a Bill to the Supreme Court before it becomes law to determine whether it is compatible with the Constitution. The process works as follows: Step 1: Consultation. The President consults the Council of State. This body, made up of senior political and legal figures, provides advice only, but it does not make the decision. Step 2: Presidential Decision. After hearing that advice, the President chooses between signing the Bill into law, or referring it to the Supreme Court. Step 3:Supreme Court Review(if referred). If referred, the Court conducts a full constitutional review.
The Possible Outcomes. If the President refers the Bill, two clear outcomes arise: (1) If the Bill is Constitutional, then the President must sign it into law. Crucially, the law becomes immune from any future constitutional challenges. This, in turn, gives the Government legal certainty and stability.(2) If the Bill is found unconstitutional, the Bill fails entirely and cannot be enacted in its current form and the Government must return to the legislative drawing board
Why This Matters. This moment is not just about one piece of legislation; it illustrates the checks and balances embedded in our Irish constitutional system. (1)A Brake on Legislative Power: Even after passing both Houses of the Oireachtas, a Bill is not guaranteed to become law. The President acts as a constitutional guardian. (2)Legal Certainty vs Legal Risk: An Article 26 reference presents a strategic trade-off; resulting in short-term delay and risk, versus long-term certainty and legal immunity. (3)Political and Legal Significance: The very act of convening the Council of State signals that the Bill raises serious constitutional questions: (A) The Government may face legal vulnerabilities. (B) The issue is of national importance.
Historical Context. Although rare, this process is not unprecedented. Previous Presidents have convened the Council of State to consider similar referrals. In some cases, Bills were signed without referral; in others, they were tested and upheld by the Supreme Court. What makes the current situation notable is that it is the first such move by President Mrs Connolly, and occurring in the context of a major and controversial reform of immigration law.
Conclusion: A Defining Constitutional Test. The coming days will determine whether the International Protection Bill proceeds directly into law or undergoes the most rigorous constitutional scrutiny available in Ireland. Either outcome will be significant and a referral could reshape or halt the legislation entirely, while a decision not to refer could allow the law to take effect, but with the possibility of future legal challenges. At its core, this episode demonstrates the strength of Ireland’s constitutional framework, where even the most politically urgent laws must ultimately withstand the test of constitutional validity.
In short, the President’s decision to consult the Council of State transforms this from a routine legislative step into a defining constitutional moment for the Irish State.
Mr Tim Maher (PRO),Bournea Reaching Out Historical Societyreports:-
The Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society has announced an upcoming public lecture examining the foundation and early years of Ireland’s national police service, An Garda Síochána. The event will take place in Lismackin Community Hall, on Monday, April 28th at 8:00 pm sharp, and all members of the public are warmly invited to attend.
The lecture will be delivered by renowned historian Dr John Reynolds, a former member of the Gardaí who trained at Templemore Garda College. Drawing on both academic research and personal insight, Dr Reynolds will explore the dramatic and often challenging beginnings of the force during a pivotal moment in Irish history.
Early Civic Guards. Note:In 1922 many recruits didn’t yet have standard uniforms.
An Garda Síochána traces its origins to February 1922, when the newly formed Provisional Government established the Civic Guard to replace the disbanded Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) and take responsibility for policing the emerging Irish Free State . The initiative, closely associated with Michael Collins, aimed to create a national police service rooted in the community rather than the militarised traditions of the past.
The lecture will highlight key milestones in the formation of the force, including the early organisational meeting held in Dublin’s Gresham Hotel in February 1922 , the appointment of Michael Staines as the first Commissioner, and the transfer of authority symbolised by the Gardaí taking over Dublin Castle in August of that year.
Dr Reynolds will also examine the significant challenges faced during the early months, such as the Kildare Mutiny, which exposed tensions within the new force and ultimately shaped its development as an unarmed police service relying on public trust and moral authority . The transformation of the Civic Guard into An Garda Síochána under legislation in 1923, and its later unification with the Dublin Metropolitan Police in 1925, will also be discussed.
This promises to be an engaging and informative evening for anyone interested in Irish history, policing, or the foundations of modern Ireland.
This Wednesday, April 1st, history comes alive across Ireland, but nowhere more vividly than in the heart of Tipperary. As part of the popular “Free Wednesday” initiative, visitors are invited to step beyond the everyday and into centuries of rich heritage, with free access to nearly 40 iconic sites nationwide. From majestic castles to hidden architectural gems, this unique opportunity opens doors, literally and figuratively, to Ireland’s past, offering unforgettable experiences for families, explorers, and culture enthusiasts alike.
The Swiss Cottage, Cahir, Co. Tipperary.
In Co. Tipperary, the spotlight shines brightly on a remarkable collection of historic landmarks, including Cahir Castle, Ormond Castle, Roscrea Castle, and the enchanting Swiss Cottage. These sites, steeped in stories of medieval power, elegant design, and rural life, showcase the county’s extraordinary contribution to Ireland’s built heritage. Many locations across the country have also recently reopened following conservation efforts, adding a renewed sense of discovery for returning and first-time visitors alike.
With no booking required and access granted on a first-come, first-served basis, this is a rare chance to immerse yourself in Ireland’s cultural legacy; completely free of charge. Whether wandering through ancient halls, admiring intricate craftsmanship, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of centuries gone by, tomorrow Wednesday promises a journey through time not to be missed.
Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society PRO Mr Tim Maher Reports:-
The Annual General Meeting of ‘Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society’ was held in Lismackin Hall on February 10th 2026 last. The outgoing Chairman Mr Tim Lee welcomed everyone to this their 13th AGM. He thanked everyone for attending the meeting in the Hall and on their videoconferencing application ‘Zoom’. He told the meeting that the club had yet another great year in 2025. He said they had commenced the year with the AGM in February by electing a new committee. Members had continued with very successful hybrid meetings and it has now become part of their normal meeting each month, over the past few years.
He stated that the club had a great visit to Cahir on their Historical Outing; visiting the Swiss Cottage and Cahir Castle, before meeting up with Mr PJ O’Meara from Cahir’s historical society, who took members on a tour around the town. Finishing in the square, the society went to the Cahir House Hotel where they had a meal, on what was described as a wonderful day, on probably the hottest day of the year.
This year they helped the Hall Committee, by applying for a grant under their name to purchase new tables for Hall.
Mr Lee went on to state, “We had a wonderful morning in Clonakenny at the Norebrook Lounge, when we invited the Tipperary Village Tours Tipp FM team, with Allison Hyland and John G O’Dwyer on Friday June 13th. They interviewed and recorded 12 speakers from all the groups in the parish, with music from Davie Brereton, Michael Ryan, and Michael Doyle. The program was later aired on Tipp FM. All interviews were subsequently transcribed for an article in our 2025 publication. Unfortunately, we didn’t have our annual Historical walk/drive this year, due to certain circumstances. We have done all the surrounding rural areas and maybe it’s time to look closer to home again, as it’s been nine years since we had a walk or drive in our own parish. Mr Paddy Coady launched our 12th volume of “Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society 2025” publication in the Norebrook Lounge. Another great achievement, and sold extremely well. Tim thanked all involved in producing this publication, from the authors to the sellers and many more involved. We also launched our website, which is a brilliant achievement, Tim thanked Emma for all her help to date. We have a lot of work to do with the webpages over the coming months but he had no doubt it will be a brilliant resource going forward. We continue to compile research like the Maher families, school, graveyard, memory card, and other historical data, etc. Our Facebook page and private GEDmatch Discussion group page on both on social media remains ongoing, helping to connect new people searching for their family history in different ways”.
Mr Lee further stated that in June, he submitted his resignation as Chairperson of Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society, with effect from tonight. He said he knew it was a bit of shock to the members and that is why after careful consideration he submitted his resignation last June, to give the society time to organize a new Chairperson. “It is time someone new took on the role and bring new ideas to the job and lead it maybe in a new and better direction for the benefit of our society”, he added.
Mr Lee said he had been Chairperson since their formation first in 2013 and during that time he was more than satisfied with what was achieved in that period. When we started, Mr Lee said he could never have imagined the number of projects the society would complete and that to lead this society into so many projects was indeed a great honour.
Mr Lee said that the proudest moment for him was receiving the Ireland XO Volunteer of the Year National award, on behalf of the society in 2015. This was a Government award, and Minister of State and Diaspora Affairs Mr Jimmy Deenihan and Mr Mike Ferick of Ireland XO presented the awards recognising that out of 500 parishes affiliated with Ireland XO that year, they were the most active, reaching out to the diaspora, who were researching their origins and, most importantly, ensuring that every returning member of the Irish diaspora was greeted with a welcome. Very few knew what we were doing outside the parish before then. That award gave Mr Lee great energy to lead the society at that time and look what they have achieved since. “We completed a lot of projects over the years and I didn’t think there was a year when we didn’t implement a significant project or event. Starting in 2013 with the setting up of Bournea Parish Group; the Ireland XO Presentation Night by Henry Healy; the Brief History of Couraguneen Graveyard booklet; all our lectures e.g. Willie Smyth when he packed the hall in 2014 and George Cunningham 2015, Joe Coughlan & Michael Ward 2016, DNA lecture by Tom Ryan 2018, Larry Breen and Rev. Mgr. Dr Maurice Dooley in 2020, the DNA Lecture by Professor Mark Kennedy 2021; first publication in 2014 to our last volume, 2025 (12 incredible publications); all our Book launches, launched by various distinguished people inside and outside the parish, including the Tipp FM Book Launch 2017; The unavailing of a plaque to Tom Delaney in Clonakenny village 2015. The Way we were project, bringing the Couraguneen Church Door back to life, the Commemoration of Toor to Loran in 2016; the school reunion and the outdoor way we were project in Clonakenny in 2017; all the historical walks mapped in our parish and reaching out to our neighboring parishes to do the walks and help them to record the history of their parishes; managing to continue during the Covid pandemic, by introducing different ways to communicate through Zoom meetings and WhatsApp; the sketch we did during Covid to promote the book in 2021; introducing the hybrid meeting in the hall; introducing the DNA GEDmatch Ancestor Project in 2022; the celebration of ten years in 2023; The Graveyard Projects over the years; the Ellis Island Project; digitizing the School Records; the opening of Jim Kennedy’s Castlepark Museum; and finally the new website we have launched in 2025, not forgetting the many smaller projects completed in the past 13 years that we have recorded in our publications.
Photo: Newly Elected Chairperson of Bournea Historical Society Ms Christine Timoney.
After The Chairperson’s address, Vice Chairman Mr Michael Costigan paid tribute to Mr Lee on behalf of the whole group. Mr Costigan said he had always a keen interest in local history and was delighted when Mr Lee asked him in 2012 to help him for a new historical group in the parish. Mr Costigan praised Mr Lee for his brain power and knowledge, as well as his patience and persistence. He said so much would have been forgotten, but those stories will now be handed down to the next generation. Researchers will be delighted with the books that we have published. He thanked Mr Lee for all his work and insight, and wished him health and happiness.
This was followed by the election of Officers 2026. Chairperson: Christine Timoney. Vice Chairperson:(Regional) Michael Costigan. Vice Chairperson:(Global) Anne Evola. Secretary: Ann Feehan. Assistant Secretary: Mary Conway. Treasurer: Dick Conroy. Public Relations Officer (PRO): Tim Maher. DNA Project Admin: Gail Hannigan
Committee Members were as follows: Paud Treacy, Aidan Lee, Michael Kiely, Hannah Greed Quigley, Nora Byrne, Margaret Maher, Philomena Hynes.
Newly elected Chairperson. Our new Chairperson, Christine Timoney lives in the city of Melbourne in Australia. She attends our meetings via Zoom every month. Christine Timoney first joined Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society in 2014 when she rented a traditional Irish cottage in Killough for four months from July to early November. The goals of her extended visit from Australia were to experience something of what it might be like to live in rural Ireland, and to reconnect with four distinct lines of Tipperary ancestors.
On one of those four lines, Christine’s maternal grandfather John Costigan left Borrisnoe for Australia in 1882, arriving as a 19-year-old in Sydney with his sister Mary Anne. They were followed seven years later by two more sisters Annie and Hannah.
John Costigan later moved on to Brisbane where in 1901 he married Honorah McMahon of Portroe. The youngest of their children was Christine’s mother Mary Costigan, born 1909. John Costigan died in Brisbane over one hundred years ago, on 30th July 1925.
Like many nineteenth century Irish emigrants, John and his sisters left more brothers and sisters behind in Ireland, and Christine feels very blessed to have reconnected in 2014 with her extended Costigan-Maher family, a great many of whom still live here.
Throughout her childhood Christine was entranced by exotic-sounding place names like Borrisnoe and Devil’s Bit Mountain, and now, having repeatedly achieved her dream of walking in her ancestors’ home places, she has stepped into the role of chairperson – from afar – of Bournea’s vibrant and active historical group. The group now boasts members from across the parish, elsewhere in Ireland and across the world. Their meetings are hybrid: every month the locals meet in Lismackin Hall while others Zoom into the meeting from Ireland, USA and Australia.
At the group’s recent AGM, Christine paid tribute to their impressive thirteen years of achievements under the inspiring leadership of founding chairperson Mr Tim Lee, and pledged to continue the many successful annual projects, including the publication of a fresh volume of Bournea history every year, the popular historical walk/drive each summer, the public history lecture and the members’ annual excursion to places of historical interest.
This year she also hopes to oversee significant progress in oral history interviews with long-time local senior residents,enhancements to the newly launched Bournea website and a thorough study of the movement of families into, out of and within the parish in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. For this last project, the group keenly awaits the release of the 1926 census of Ireland, which will be freely available online from 18 April.
Christine pays tribute particularly to the group’s resilience in adapting to the challenges of the pandemic in 2020 and is grateful that their response was to go hybrid with their meetings. This has created a unique environment for cooperation and collaboration between local residents passionate about history and genealogy, and like-minded descendants of Bournea emigrants who moved to othercountries over the past couple of centuries.
Christine thanks Bournea Reaching Out Historical Society for offering her this unique opportunity to make a difference from afar.
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