Fianna Fáil Chairman of Coiste 1916 Commemorative Committee Éamon Ó Cuív TD has today introduced a Bill in the Dáil aimed at creating a 1916 historical quarter in the heart of Dublin City.
The 1916 Quarter Area will include the General Post Office, its surrounding streets and Moore Street as well as all other 1916 related sites.
Deputy Ó Cuív commented, “The legislation we have introduced will protect the key locations and areas which are linked to the 1916 Easter Rising. These include all of the locations where Irish Volunteers and the Irish Citizen Army fought during Easter week.
“We are proposing to establish an urban development company tasked with creating a 1916 Quarter Area in the heart of Dublin city. Its aim will be to create a lasting memorial for the men and woman who fought in 1916. This area will include the General Post Office and adjoining streets alongside the Moore Street area. These locations are of historical significance and must be given the prominence that they deserve.
“Our plan will bring about the redevelopment and revitalisation of a significant part of Dublin city centre. It will be modelled on the success of the Temple Bar redevelopment project and will allow for the historical and economic significance of the 1916 sites to be preserved. We are also proposing that a ‘Freedom Trail’ be established so that the sites associated with the Easter Rising are clearly identified.
“The Government has no real plan for safeguarding these important locations. The centenary of the Easter Rising will come and go, but it is important that we invest in our heritage to ensure it is preserved to allow future generations of Irish people to recognise the sacrifices made in 1916. This Bill will safeguard these places and give them the recognition they deserve.”
