merrion street

The Minster for Arts, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys TD, and Chairman of the Glasnevin Trust, John Green, are today (Wednesday) leading proceedings at this year’s Armistice Day Commemoration at Glasnevin Cemetery.

The event was marked by the laying of wreaths at the Cross of Sacrifice to remember the thousands of Irish men and women who died fighting in World War One. This was followed by the unveiling of commemorative plaques in honour of three Irish men who received the Victoria Cross for their efforts in World War One.

Minister Humphreys is also launching a new exhibition at Glasnevin, which traces the story of the 36th Ulster Division and the 6th Connaught Rangers, which details how the two divisions, from different backgrounds, put differences aside and fought together during World War One.

Reflecting on today’s event Minister for Arts, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys TD said:
“Armistice Day provides us with an important annual opportunity to remember those who lost their lives fighting in the two world wars. Armistice Day takes on particular significance in this Decade of Centenaries; as we know that 100 years ago, Irish soldiers fighting in World War One were facing terrible bloodshed and hardship. It is important that, a century later, we reflect on these events and how they shaped the world today.

“The new exhibition at Glasnevin is the first time that memorabilia and stories from the 36thUlster Division and the Connaught Rangers are being brought together. The exhibition illustrates the different traditions and backgrounds of the young men who left the island of Ireland to fight on the front.

“It includes the account of John Stewart, from near the Shankill Road, a member of the 36thUlster Division, who died on the first day of the Battle of the Somme and Owen Conlon from West Belfast, originally a member of the 6th Connaught Rangers, who perished at Gallipoli. Despite their differences, they served together and they will be remembered together.”