Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I do not disagree with some of that sentiment. Commemorations are of most value when they are placed in the modern world in which we live with relevance and that we can learn from them rather than just commemorating the past alone. It is also important that we do not deny them. It is a matter for perspective and balance and we must recognise the authentic separatist tradition they represent.

See this speech in context