Bruton’s attempt to rewrite history exposes Home Rule’s limitations

Former Taoiseach, John Bruton, suggests that this September we should celebrate the anniversary of the granting of Home Rule to Ireland.

Mr. Bruton may do so, if he wishes, but he is not comparing like with like when he suggests the achievements of Arthur Griffith, Michael Collins, and Eamon de Valera were no more than that of John Redmond.

British Prime Minister Herbert Asquith referred to the limitations set out in the first clause of the 1914 act, which showed where the real power in Ireland would remain: “Notwithstanding the establishment of the Irish Parliament or anything contained in this act, the supreme power and authority of parliament in the United Kingdom shall remain unaffected and undiminished over all persons, matters, and things within His Majesty’s dominions.”