It has remained the national anthem ever since, with the only possibility of that changing being the prospect of a united Ireland. It was regularly recited in military settings – in the IRA and subsequently the Irish Free State Army, where it provided the ceremonial closing for meetings and events. While The Soldier’s Song was played at some national functions, the Department of External Affairs believed that while it was “excellent as a revolutionary song, both words and music are unsuitable for a national anthem”. It soon became common practice to play The Soldier’s Song at functions within the Irish Free State and Let Erin Remember at events abroad. Regardless, the retention of Amhrán na bhFiann will undoubtedly come under severe strain should there be a strong likelihood of a united Ireland being realised.