The final phase of the Home Rule legislation will be commemorated this year in Ireland and, in association with the parliament at Westminster, in London. Arrangements relating to the centenary of the legislation in September are in preparation. The centenary of the World War has been acknowledged already this year by several local authorities and academic centres. Regimental associations and ex-service organisations are arranging visits to battlefield sites. National cultural institutions are organising special events and presentations. Special arrangements relating to the entry into the war are being made in Ireland, Britain and abroad in late July and early August. In this regard, I would specifically mention the dedication of a large monumental cross at Glasnevin cemetery, Dublin on 31 July. The centenary of the Easter Rising will be the culmination of the first phase of the Decade of Centenaries programme that commenced in 2012. A number of capital projects have been commissioned for completion to feature in the commemorative programme. Consideration is underway of the events and activities that will complete the programme.
The 1918 election and the 1st Dail will be addressed in due course as they arise on the centenary timeline. The commemorative programme to date has been strengthened and enhanced by the initiatives of partners in relation to their heritage. The consideration of the Oireachtas in relation to the Centenary of the 1st Dail would be very welcome.
Similarly, the conclusion of the War of Independence, the Anglo-Irish treaty and the Civil War will be addressed on the Centenary timeline. At this remove, I can only advise that the commemorative programme will seek to ensure that the arrangements are comprehensive, authentic and inclusive.
