Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The development of the commemorative programme for the centenary period, to include the First World War, is being co-ordinated on behalf of the Government by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan. I understand that arrangements to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War are at an advanced stage and officials from the Department of Defence are liaising closely with colleagues in the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in supporting commemorative events in Ireland and abroad.

In common with the many nations who share the history of the First World War, it is appropriate that we acknowledge the service and loss of Irish soldiers in that conflict. This was reflected in the significant support that the Defence Forces provided in Messines in December 2013 when the Taoiseach and the British Prime Minister laid wreaths in remembrance of the Irish who lost their lives in the First World War. The Defence Forces have been active in acknowledging service and loss for many years. They already play a central role in the annual commemorations at the National War Memorial Gardens in Islandbridge and in the National Day of Commemoration ceremony in Kilmainham and will do so again this year, in July.

Furthermore, on 31 July next, a Cross of Sacrifice will be unveiled in Glasnevin Cemetery which will be dedicated to the Irish soldiers who died in the First World War. The Defence Forces will provide significant ceremonial and logistical support for this event. Members of the Defence Forces will also attend First World War commemorations being held across Europe, including the Somme ceremony in July and centenary commemorations marking the start of the war in early August. In addition to the support and representation provided at national and international commemorations to mark the First World War, requests for Defence Forces participation in events organised by local authorities and community groups are also received and, where appropriate, representation is provided.

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