There's a call for today to be turned into a public holiday.
Some are suggesting that St Brigid's Day could be used as a memorial day for those who have died with Covid-19.
According to the Gaelic calendar, today marks the first day of spring.
President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to the saint.
"Generations of Irish women have benefited from her inspiration and legacy."
Watch the President’s special message to mark Lá Fhéile Bríde / St. Brigid’s Day in full at: https://t.co/xGTlTzRtoL pic.twitter.com/h6Hf8peetJ
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) January 31, 2021
"Today, as we recall her story with admiration may we also resolve to seek inspiration her example and to pursue her ideal of equality."
Junior Minister for Research and Development Martin Heydon says he has asked the Taoiseach to consider making February 1st a holiday.
After Scoil Carmel I went to St Brigids in Celbridge & we heard regular stories about her. How she founded first monastery in Kildare, her dedication to education, how she wasn't confined to what society dictated. Totally agree we should make this a public holiday! #LaFheileBride
— Hazel Chu (@hazechu) February 1, 2021
"It would bridge the long gap between our public holidays - between the first of January and the 17th of March."
Minister Heydon says it would boost our tourism and hospitality sectors.
"It would be a public for a strong Irish woman whose powerful leadership inspired all that she encountered."
🌼🌿@MartinHeydonFG is calling for #StBrigidsDay on February 1st to be considered as a new Public Holiday in Ireland to bridge the gap between existing holidays and to mark the first day of Spring. pic.twitter.com/zV2ysc51ms
— Fine Gael (@FineGael) February 1, 2021
Last year it was suggested that an extra bank Holiday could be on the cards to boost tourism,.
However there has been no further update if such a measure is to be introduced.
Those supporting the idea say it would be a fitting way to recognise the sacrifices of the Irish people during the pandemic.
Lá Fhéile Bride Shona Daoibh,
Finally Spring has arrived and with it brings #hope. Here’s to new beginnings and brighter times ahead x— Helen McEntee TD (@HMcEntee) February 1, 2021
They say it would also highlight the hope that's ahead.
