Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

12 o’clock

The legacy of the decade of centenaries will be really important. If we think back to 1916 and the 2016 celebrations, the legacy of that was crucial to the success of the second half of this decade. We are all aware of the challenges and sensitivities involved over the next number of years, especially for an appropriate commemoration of the struggle for Independence, the foundation of the State, the Civil War and the partition of the island, as well as the foundation of Northern Ireland. I was very encouraged by our last meeting. We are taking into account the expert advisory group's recommendations. We are not necessarily tied to that but it is a very good guide. The local authorities, with the €10,000 that each has, will be able to do their own individual commemorations. There was one for Soloheadbeg and another is coming up in May. Various different local authorities will be able to use their own imagination and creativity.

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