Bank should hand over its historic headquarters

THE centenary of the 1916 Rising is a mere seven years away and regardless of whether the State will be able to afford it, the occasion will be marked in some way, preferably with at least one significant act that will leave an enduring positive legacy.

To this end, it would be a gesture of inestimable value if the governor and court of the Bank of Ireland were to vacate the former House of Lords and associated buildings in Dublin, none of which is suitable for modern banking, and donate the lot to the State.

The Board of Works and the National Museum would be excellent stewards on behalf of the Government. The present and improving condition of the former Collins Barracks in Dublin is testimony to the quality of their stewardship.

I suggest that the first use of the bank premises in College Green under a new dispensation might be as a focal point for exhibitions and events around the centennial remembrances of 1916, both the Rising and the Battle of the Somme. Two significant events could be recalled in an iconic building and in the context of European history involving the Irish, the Germans, the French and the British.

Later use of the building might be as a centre for the study of Irish history and culture in a world context.

The bank is deeply indebted to our Government which has given enormous amounts of money to it to save the country from the dire consequences of its and other banks’ dealings. To acquire the buildings would be the first step and, under the present circumstances of the bank’s obligation to the state, should be done at little or no cost.

David Taylor

Killester Ave

Dublin 5