2016 commemorations for republicans only 

I am amazed by newly-appointed [Arts] Minister Heather Humphreys widely reported comments that the upcoming 1916 commemorations "belongs to everyone".

They do no. The Easter Rising “belongs” to those people who subscribe to the principles of the Proclamation, are republicans, and agree with the decision to stage an armed revolution to achieve those principles. If you do not, and many people choose not to subscribe to the foregoing, then it’s patently obvious that the commemoration of the Easter Rising does not belong to you.

Ms Humpreys is like a growing number of public figures manipulating our history in order to dilute its message and meaning which proves uncomfortable and still challenging.

We would do well to monitor carefully the proposed commemorations for 1916 as it’s obvious that in the hands of this shameful government with its imperial allegiances the commemorations will be downgraded and abused.

Patrick Cooney

46 Shantalla Drive

Beaumont

Dublin 9