Our current crop of politicians shouldn’t be allowed organise 1916 commemorations

In 1979 I recall, as a young boy, being introduced by my grandparents to a friend who had an interest in CB radio and electronics.

We met again the following week and he told me about radio and television transmission he toyed around with in the late 1920s. I asked if his father had helped? He said he died when he was eight, shot by the British in 1916. I didn’t pursue the conversation any further. It was later I realised I’d been talking to Thomas Clarke Junior.

When you experience things like that and read Pearse’s letter to his mother from Kilmainham Prison you realise these men and women were special. They put themselves on the line for their beliefs and were accountable for their actions.

As 2016 approaches I hear rumblings of planned parades, commemorations and such like. It should not be a celebration: mourning would be more suitable, given that the country has been ruined by the greed and ineptitude of assorted politicians and public servants.

Whatever party you support, none are worthy of comparison with the people of Easter 1916. My stomach turns at the spectre of politicians drawing down state funds to pay for parties, celebrations, statue polishing, invited dignitaries, gravy training etc.

Unlike Thomas Clarke they will not be accountable to anyone.

Rowan Mulrooney

Glencrue

Portroe

Nenagh,

Co Tipperary