Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 76: To ask the Minister for Defence if there have been further meetings of the all-party group to plan commemorations of the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising; if the group has reviewed the outcome of the recent 90th anniversary commemorations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17220/06]

Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 458: To ask the Minister for Defence if the Government has proposals for the GPO, O'Connell Street, and No. 16 Moore Street, Dublin 1, in the context of the commemoration of the events of 1916; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16839/06]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 and 458 together.

The all-party group held their first meeting on Wednesday 1 March, 2006. Arrangements for the 90th Anniversary Commemoration were outlined and preliminary discussions were also held in relation to the framework for the centenary programme. I envisage that the next meeting of this group will be held shortly and the group will continue to meet as necessary to plan commemorations of the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. Contributions of members will doubtless be informed by the coverage and commentary of this year's events.

I believe that there was general public approval and support for the commemorations of the Easter Rising. This was very evident at the military parade and at the other events organised by the National Museum of Ireland and the National Library (and not overlooking other initiatives by colleges, community groups and within political parties which were not part of the official programme). The keen interest in the period and the readiness to explore this important heritage reflects a willingness to address anew the events of those turbulent years with a view to an enhanced appreciation of the different traditions in Ireland. I look forward to engaging again soon with the group members on how that process might best be advanced.

I do not think it would be appropriate to put forward any particular plans with regard to the commemorations in advance of the all party group's final consideration of a balanced programme. However, without prejudice to the deliberations of the all-party group, the government would be favourably disposed towards an initiative in relation to the GPO and its environs.