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.