Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 December 2014
112. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the involvement the military of other European States may have in the commemorative events related to the anniversary of the 1916 Rising. [46870/14]
View answerThe Ireland 2016 initiative, which was recently launched and which I am leading, aims to develop, coordinate and deliver a programme to appropriately honour and remember those who fought and died in the 1916 Easter Rising. It will also reflect on the legacy of that period and look towards our future, based around 5 themes:
- Remembering the past
- Reconciling and respecting all traditions
- Presenting Ireland to the world
- Imagining our future
- Celebrating our achievements.
The initiative involves a wide process of consultation and, in that context, I plan to engage on an all-island basis and work with interested parties from all sides to bring forward authentic commemorations that promote a deeper understanding of differing perspectives on our shared history.
In relation to the issue of military participation, I am continuing to consult with the Oireachtas All-Party Consultation Group on Commemorations, the Expert Advisory Group on Commemorations and other relevant stakeholders in relation to all aspects of the format and programme for these events, so as to ensure that Easter 2016 will be a very special and poignant tribute to all those who participated and died in the Rising.
