The young man who garnered international headlines for saving his family in Australia has received praise in the Dáil.
Originally from Magheracloone, Joanne Appelbee and her family, are now living in Perth.
Earlier this year, Joanne's son Austin displayed remarkable strength, following a kayaking incident on the 30th of January.
In an act of incredible bravery, Austin swam for four hours to reach the shore.
He then continued for a further two hours on foot to alert rescue services-an effort that ultimately led to the family being saved.
Austin has previously received recognition from both Monaghan County Council, and the President Catherine Connolly.
However, yesterday the family received a round of applause in Dáil Éireann.
Prior to leader's questions, the Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy broke with protocol to welcome the family.
She said: "I hope colleagues will assist when I break with the normal rules of not welcoming anyone during Leaders' Questions. Today we have a very special welcome in giving a big, warm céad míle fáilte to an incredible young man, Mr. Austin Appelbee, age 13.
"Deputies may have heard Austin's story from February this year, when he undertook an incredible act of bravery in Western Australia. In order to save the lives of his mother Joanne, his brother Beau and his sister Grace, Austin undertook a four-hour, 4 km swim followed by a 2 km run to contact emergency services, which ultimately led to everyone being rescued by emergency services.
"What an incredible feat. We are delighted to have Austin and his family here today in the Public Gallery. You are most welcome," the Ceann Comhairle added.
Sinn Féin leader, Mary Lou McDonald reminded the Ceann Comhraile of one important detail.
"Fáilte, Austin. Deputy Carthy is telling me that Austin is a Monaghan man. The Ceann Comhairle missed the most important element of the story. Comhghairdeas agus fáilte," McDonald added.
Austin Appelbee was also warmly welcomed in the Seanad.
Acting Chair, Senator Chris Andrews broke with protocol to wlecome the 13 year old.
Senator Andrews said: "Before we move on, I will break with the normal rules of the House and ask Members to join me in giving a warm céad míle fáilte to an incredible young man, Austin Appelbee, aged 13. Members may have heard Austin's story from February of this year, when he undertook an incredible act of bravery in Western Australia in order to save the lives of his mother Joanne, his brother Beau and his sister Grace.
"Austin undertook a four-hour, 4 km swim, followed by a 2 km run, to contact emergency services, which ultimately led to everyone being rescued by the emergency services. What an incredible feat.
"We are delighted to have Austin and his family in the Visitors Gallery today as the guests of Deputy David Maxwell. They are very welcome. I imagine Austin will be doing triathlons soon. It is a huge credit to him and his family. Well done. It is great to have them here," Senator Andrews added.
