asked the Taoiseach if the Government and the Army will be represented at the annual commemoration at Béal na mBláth this year for the 50th anniversary of the death of Michael Collins.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Michael Collins Commemoration.
1.
On many occasions over the past few years I suggested that an all party committee might be set up to consider how all those who died in the civil war could be appropriately honoured this year but this suggestion was not pursued.
The practice has been well established of setting aside a special day each year to honour all those who took part in the struggle for independence. I think that it is a good practice and one that should be continued. However, in the very special circumstance of this year being the 50th anniversary of the commencement of the Civil War the Government have agreed that the Defence Forces will be represented at the Béal na Bláth ceremonies next August to commemorate the death of Michael Collins 50 years ago.
It is intended that the Defence Forces will also be represented at another commemorative ceremony of a similar nature during the year.
Could I ask the Taoiseach who would take the initiative in setting up an all-party committee?
As I said here several times, I asked my Parliamentary Secretary to pursue it but apparently it was not well received by the other side.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that when the terms of reference for such a committee were requested repeatedly they were not forthcoming?
I was anxious that a group would get together informally and consider it in advance. However, I think it is not on now obviously, because the parties opposite did not react to it.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that they were not given the terms of reference although they were asked for repeatedly?
There was no question of special terms of reference. It was stated here in a general way that the committee would get together to see how best those who died in the Civil War could be honoured.
Arising out of what the Taoiseach has said and leaving aside the question of the all-party committee, I would like the Taoiseach to understand that the Government's decision is appreciated.