1916 relatives launch own programme of events as dispute rumbles on

Relatives of those who died in 1916 have come together to launch their own centenary programme.

The group say they are disappointed at the state's plans to commemorate the centenary celebrations.

A programmme of events has been launched by the state for Easter 2016. The Easter military parade will take place on Sunday March 27 next year. €22m will also be spent on seven projects by next Easter to create permanent reminders of the 100-year anniversary.

Talks, exhibitions, seminars and cultural events will be held around the world through the embassy network.

A special set of commemorative stamps and a series of coins will also be issued.

Full details of the Ireland 2016 commemorations will be published on Ireland.ie.

Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys said Ireland 2016 is designed to remember, honour, inspire and motivate.

“I want to get the entire nation involved in 2016; together we can remember and honour our history, while also looking to the future and asking ourselves where we want the country to go in the next 100 years,” she said.

“Relatives of the 1916 participants are being given a special role in a number of key state events, in recognition of the sacrifice made by their family members.

However, relatives are critical at what they describe as a lack of consultation regarding the preparations.

Jim Connolly Heron, who is a is a great grandson of James Connolly's said: "What was launched during the week was not a programme as such. We don't believe that's a centenery programme. It's really just aspirational.

"We are putting in place a programme which we hope will open up discussion and debate so there can be a common approach on how best to celebrate and commemorate what is the most important date in our history."