Ahern unveils plans for 1916 celebration
In his opening address to the Fianna Fáil Árd Fheis in Killarney, Mr Ahern unveiled details of the first large scale commemoration parade of the rebellion to involve the Defence Forces in 40 years. The Taoiseach insisted the initiative was needed to recognise the sacrifices of Ireland’s “greatest generation” and retrieve their achievements from those who “denigrate” their memory.
“Our Defence Forces - the only legitimate army of the Irish people - will parade to commemorate this historic event and their proud contribution in the service of the State and the UN.