Micheál Martin: ‘Time to reclaim legacy of 1916’

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has insisted it is time to reclaim the legacy of the 1916 rebellion after the Provisional IRA tried to “hijack” the rising.

Sat, 21 Mar, 2015 - 00:00

Shaun Connolly

Mr Martin said there should be no “inhibitions” about celebrating the centenary as it was not connected with the Troubles in the North.

“It is fair to say that others in more modern times, in my view, have tarnished the Rising and attempted to distort history in a most appalling way to justify acts that could not be justified — and I’m referring to the 30 years’ campaign by the Provisional IRA in the North.

“There is no connection or direct link or chain that they sometimes attempt to articulate between the events of 1916, and what transpired in terms of the murder and mayhem in Northern Ireland for such a prolonged period there.

“Let me be clear that we believe that 1916 belongs to no party, it belongs to the Irish people. It is ironic that the only party with no direct connection to 1916 is the one most likely to try to abuse it for political purposes.

“The Rising was truly a watershed in terms of the history of the country. Not just of this country, but in terms of global events. It was the first colony that the Empire lost and it inspired other countries around the world to strike out for their freedom,” Mr Martin said as he launched his party’s programme of events to mark the centenary next year.

He also criticised a lack of resources being put into official events organised by the Government.

Launching Sinn Féin’s Northern programme of events, deputy first minister Martin McGuinness said the commemoration should be used to project a sense of equality across the island.

“The 1916 Proclamation is a declaration of social and economic intent for a rights-based society in which the people are sovereign.

“It is a freedom charter for this whole island and all the people who live here.

“Today, we need the spirit and the vision; the selflessness and generosity of those who struck for freedom almost 100 years ago.

“We want a new future in which citizens are sovereign and equal; in a society tolerant and inclusive of race, colour, class, creed, gender, or disability — an Ireland built on positive change, equality and partnership.”