Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

I am impressed with the fact the Leader of the House accommodated such a debate, that so many Members of the Upper House have decided to contribute and for the constructive contributions made.

Senator Ó Murchú vividly outlined the background and painted a picture that encompassed the views of many other Members who spoke. I compliment him on that. He suggested it would be appropriate at this time that the members of the Save 16 Moore Street Committee should meet the Taoiseach and the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Ó Cuív. When the House suspended in the course of the debate I used the opportunity to progress the suggestion. I am pleased to confirm that I have arranged for a meeting on Tuesday, 1 February between the committee, the Taoiseach and the Minister for Social Protection. The time and location of the meeting will be conveyed to the committee in the coming days. It is important the committee is closely involved in the work of the 1916 centenary committee with the Taoiseach and the Minister for Social Protection — I do not need to elaborate on his connection with the most important event in our history.

I did not get an opportunity previously to refer to the contribution of Senator Ó Murchú on the re-interring of so many people from Mountjoy Prison and the important part he allowed my county to play in that event with the re-interment of Paddy Moran. We very much appreciate that and the recent book written by his niece launched in Kilmainham Gaol.

Today's debate has been important. Speakers have committed to the public record what they believe should happen. Much thought and sincerity was put into what was said. I hope the meeting I have arranged for Tuesday next will be a step towards completing what will be an important event in 2016. Nobody should feel excluded on account of anything that happened subsequent to 1916. We should all reflect on the fact that 1916 preceded any of the other events, unfortunate though they may have been, and that we can all, as a free people, embrace the centenary in a wholesome way, irrespective of what political party or allegiance we have, and have a meaningful remembrance, whatever form it will take.