Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Taoiseach for his comprehensive reply. I welcome the sentiments he expressed and I look forward to working with him and the Government on ensuring a comprehensive programme of commemoration to open up genuine shared understanding of the different traditions on the island.

Does the Taoiseach agree that the commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising showed considerable public support for commemorating the event that directly sparked the achievement of independence by the State? There was a wonderful atmosphere on the streets of Dublin with tens of thousands of families in attendance. Does the Taoiseach agree that a crucial factor in that commemoration was the centrality of the Defence Forces, a body of men and women who have always represented a unifying force across all classes and boundaries? Does he agree that a dignified commemoration of the State founded by the heroes of 1916 needs to be at the core of the 2016 events and that the Defence Forces should be at the core of that centenary commemoration?

I have two questions regarding ongoing commemorations. There is always strong public support for State events to be held outside Dublin to address the entire period of the Irish revolution, dating from 1916 to 1921. The Taoiseach mentioned the period prior to that time, which was valid. What will be done outside Dublin and will work be undertaken to facilitate it?

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