Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. This will be the sixth occasion I have raised the issue of the national monument on Moore Street. The national monument is the birthplace of our Republic. It is where the last surrender took place in 1916. It is an incredibly important location, historically, socially and culturally to us all and to our Republic. I hope the Minister of State is coming to the House with an update on progress that the State is making on restoring the national monument and creating at that site on Moore Street a commemorative centre to commemorate the heroes of 1916; to commemorate the birthplace of our Republic and to commemorate the fight for freedom and independence that we all enjoy today.

As well as being the birthplace of our Republic from a political and governmental perspective, it is one of the country’s oldest trading streets. It is one that has a rich history of commerce and trade. It is a street that has been sadly neglected for far too long, primarily by the local authority but also by those who own properties privately. It is a great shame to this city that Moore Street is so neglected and derelict looking and lacks the energy and attention that a street of its stature deserves. I am hoping the Minister of State will inform the House today on the progress that the State and the Government, and the OPW, are making and that he can give the House some hope and certainty that in the very near future the monument and commemorative centre will be open and that investment will be made on the street to bring it back to life and to restore it to its former glory and make it once again a vibrant trading street; a hub of activity and commerce and a hub of social interaction.

It is a part of the city and country that is incredibly diverse. Its diversity is part of its great richness and strength. The cultural opportunity that exists in that part of the city is enormous. We need to foster it and support it. The State needs to encourage it. A big step in that direction would be the opening of a commemorative centre. It would act as an example for how the State and we as a country value our culture and heritage and those who came before us. It would also act as a beacon for what can be achieved into the future of a Republic that is diverse, equal and democratic. I really do hope the Minister of State has a positive update for the House this morning.