Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

To some extent, Members should feel pleased that 1916 is being discussed in these Houses. It is no longer a matter of "Who fears to speak of Easter week". In many ways, we must be careful that in endeavouring to build bridges, we do not become apologetic for what we are. I have always supported the idea of commemorations because I never thought of them in terms of physical force. I thought of them in terms of patriotism, of selflessness and of heroism. I do not believe that the men and women of 1916 were in any sense "military", as we understand the term. Having one parent who was English, many of my relatives fought with the British army but I am an Irishman and I would like to commemorate and celebrate those people who helped us to develop in the manner we have. The discussion on all aspects of the fight for freedom has never lacked balance.

There is a strong revisionist movement in Ireland and many of the revisionists have written books and articles and made programmes which denigrated and misrepresented the patriots of the past. Recently, I was privileged to be a guest speaker at a meeting of the 1916-1921 Club at McKee Barracks. The club has commemorated that period through the years but I did not get a sense of them failing to acknowledge other countries that fought for their freedom and protected their independence.

My mother, for example, wore the poppy but I saw nothing wrong with that. There is, therefore, nothing wrong with people in Britain or America commemorating bravery and courage. I am worried that we are not mature enough to recognise those great people who gave leadership at a time it was necessary. If 1916 is to be commemorated, I would not like the commemoration to be confused. However, I agree with Senator Walsh's call yesterday. Why not have a long debate during which everybody's point of view can be heard and analysed? The House would do a great credit to the State if it gave leadership in that regard.