FF Propose New Bill For 1916 Historical Quarter

Fianna Fáil has proposed a new Bill that would see the development of a 1916 historical quarter in Dublin.

The party's chairman of Coiste 1916 Committee, Éamon Ó Cuív, has urged the Government to support the 1916 Quarter Development Bill 2015, which is to be debated during Private Members' Business in the Dáil.

"This Bill goes much further than the current legislation designed to refurbish and restore the Moore Street area. Fianna Fáil wants to create a 1916 historical quarter in Dublin city, which would encompass not only the GPO and Moore Street, but also other key locations which were linked to the 1916 Easter Rising such as Bolands Mills, South Dublin Union (St. James Hospital), the Old Jacobs Factory and the Royal College of Surgeons to name but a few," Deputy Ó Cuív said.

"Eventually we would like to see all of the locations where Irish Volunteers and the Irish Citizen Army fought during Easter week preserved. This Bill provides for the establishment of an urban development company which would oversee the creation of the 1916 historical quarter to ensure that areas of historical significance are given the prominence they deserve. Beginning with the GPO and Moore Street area, the development company would undertake major regeneration and restoration works in and around Dublin city centre, which would not only serve to mark an important event in Ireland's history, but would also breathe life back into areas which have fallen into disrepair.

"We want to create a city that respects and preserves its history, while at the same time rejuvenating those areas.  Fianna Fáil is calling for the establishment of a 'Freedom Trail' to clearly identify all of the sites associated with the Easter Rising.

"While we support the Government's programme of events to mark the Rising, there needs to be a lasting investment made in our history and heritage so that future generations of Irish people recognise the sacrifices made in 1916. This Bill will safeguard these places and give them the recognition they deserve."

(MH/CD)