Vol. 487 No. 1
19 Mr. Finucane asked the Taoiseach the plans, if any, he has to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Young Ireland Revolt of 1848 and the involvement of William Smith O'Brien one of its leaders who came from the Ardagh area in County Limerick; if he will consider a suitable commemorative project for Ardagh during 1998; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3352/98]
There are no plans to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Young Ireland Revolt of 1848 at a national level. There was a very comprehensive commemoration of Thomas Davis's death and the Young Ireland Revolt in the 1940s on the occasion of the centenary. While this year we are concentrating our resources on the commemoration of 1798, we will not entirely ignore the 150th anniversary of 1848 in respect of ceremonies as the two events have some natural links.
I also understand Limerick County Council is at present considering various proposals in its plans to commemorate this anniversary and in particular the role of William Smith O'Brien. Work is also to commence shortly on the new area offices of Limerick County Council in Newcastle West, quite near Ardagh, which will be named after William Smith O'Brien.
