Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, took certain measures yesterday to ensure the integrity and the security of the national monument at Moore Street. As we know, this area is closely associated with the 1916 Rising. It was there that the leaders signed the final surrender. It is certainly one of the most historical sites in Ireland. I was glad to hear the Minister state that we owe it to the descendants of the men and women of 1916 to ensure this area is properly developed. As I interpret what the Minister has done, it appears he is thinking beyond the buildings, which is correct, and looking at this as a total battle site, which is the right way to deal with it in a historical context, but anyone who has looked inside these buildings will know that they are dilapidated. They are shocking. They are close to falling, and we are within three years of 2016, when we will celebrate the centenary of the 1916 Rising. This area will be a focal point at that time. I support the Minister in the efforts he is making. I know that when it comes to heritage there are complexities involved between the State and Dublin City Council. It would be welcome if the Leader would consider inviting the Minister into the House to outline specifically what he has in mind.

The Cathaoirleach might remember that in a previous debate we had direct descendants of the seven signatories present in the Visitors' Gallery, and there was a great sense of history. There was unanimity on the floor of the House that this matter should be treated urgently. It might be worthwhile if the Minister would consider assembling a group of people representative of his Department, Dublin City Council, the relatives, the 1916 committee and so on. I do not want to see this issue drifting on, and clarity should be provided. I am pleased that it is the Minister, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, who is handling this because he is showing that he is pragmatic and idealistic and is treating this in an urgent manner but I would hate to think of arriving at 2016 with some of those buildings having fallen. I do not know if there is any hope of having a debate before the summer recess but I ask the Leader to invite the Minister to the House as soon as possible to allow us have some dialogue with him on this matter.