Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan has had a particular interest in the matter for quite some time and I thank her for her contribution. We are entering a decade of centenary commemorative events which must be inclusive, sensitive and appropriate. That is why the Minister, cross-party personnel and a number of professional historians are concerned to do this in a way which is authentic, fitting and appropriate, based not only on the revolution but on the direction of the country over the next 100 years. For that reason, the Government has made available substantial funding between now and the commemorations for the military archives at McKee Barracks, the restoration of Kilmainham Courthouse, the developments internally in the GPO, access to the Bank of Ireland on College Green and the preservation of Nos. 14 to 17 Moore Street. I was down there myself on a number of occasions and it is not the kind of place in its current condition that one would wish to send people to view the location of the eventual surrender of the group from the GPO who sought safety there.

The Minister's responsibility and function is in respect of the national monument at Nos. 14 to 17 Moore Street. He has some responsibility beyond its curtilage as to where the private property developments may impinge or impact on the foundations in the immediate vicinity. Dublin City Council also has an impact in terms of planning permission conditions etc.

On different occasions I met a number of relatives of those who had fought in the GPO and been involved in 1916, but I am not sure to which group the Deputy is referring. I am happy to engage with people. This is a centenary and it is important to get it as right as possible. This is our capital city and Ireland is recognised as one of the first small countries at the beginning of last century to achieve its independence. It is appropriate for those with responsibility in government to make arrangements to ensure the event is comprehensive, sensitive, appropriate and fitting at the commencement of a new century of progress for the people socially, economically, culturally and in other ways. Perhaps the Deputy might let me know the group about which she is talking and I will be happy to meet it with the Minister in due course to see how best we can proceed.

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