Eamon de Valera Quotes

Eamon de Valera — Irish Statesman born on October 14, 1882, died on August 29, 1975

Éamon de Valera was one of the dominant political figures in twentieth century Ireland. His political career spanned over half a century, from 1917 to 1973; he served several terms as head of government and head of state. He also led the introduction of the Constitution of Ireland... (wikipedia)

We cannot afford idleness, waste or inefficiency.

The part which American friendship played in helping us to win the freedom we enjoy in this part of Ireland has been gratefully recognized and acknowledged by our people.

We, of our time, have played our part in the perseverance, and we have pledged ourselves to the dead generations who have preserved intact for us this glorious heritage, that we, too, will strive to be faithful to the end, and pass on this tradition unblemished.

Here, in Cork district, you have in combination all the dangers which war can inflict.

From the moment this war began, there was, for this state, only one policy possible, neutrality.