merrion street

As he continues to plan the commemorative programme, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan T.D. expressed his confidence that the arrangements for the Centenary of the Easter Rising in 2016 would reflect its historic importance and transformative effect on Irish society. In particular, the Minister intended that the principled commitment and selfless determination of the revolutionary leaders and personnel would be acknowledged.

Linking those historic events to modern times, Minister Deenihan said he would like to see as many as possible of the descendants and relatives of 1916 personnel attend and participate in commemorative events.

Speaking today, Minister Deenihan said:-

"Throughout the development of the Centenary programme, in all of the consultation meetings on different issues, I have been impressed with the interest and commitment of the family members and their wish to be closely involved in the upcoming commemorations."

"I believe that our acknowledgement of the service, sacrifice and achievement of the truly remarkable men and women involved in the Easter Rising, should include a special consideration and their descendants and relatives should be involved."

"Our ongoing preparations would be greatly assisted if relatives who are interested in being represented in the Centenary arrangements could contact the Department. I would be grateful to receive all such expressions of interest in relation to the commemorations in 2016 from families along with information on their familial connection to the Rising."

Families and relatives are invited to make contact in writing to:-

Commemorations Unit

Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Kildare Street

Dublin 2

or by e-mail to commemorations@ahg.gov.ie