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Staging the Treaty Part 2

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THE BATTLE OF THE TITANS: DAYS 5–8 OF THE DEBATES

The Dáil is now in Public Session. Arthur Griffith proposes adoption of the Treaty, De Valera opposes this. Collins argues that, drawing on correspondence between De Valera and Lloyd George, it was clear before negotiations began that the Republic was not on the cards. He denies, in the face of Deputies making the allegation, that they have betrayed the Republic, and makes the further point that the Treaty only becomes valid if ratified by the Dáil. It is clear now that the Dáil is split on the question of an Oath of Allegiance, accepting the King of England as Head of State. Childers argues that the prior Oath is to be to the Constitution, and that the Oath of Allegiance is nullified if it is claimed to take precedence over the Oath to the Constitution. Opposition Deputies focus on the Oath of Allegiance as the point on which they will break.

  • Year
    2023