Issues cloud royal visits

Thomas Kent remains the only leader of 1916 whose remains haven’t been returned to the family. This is due to an embargo of British archives not to release details where he was buried in Cork prison for 100 years.

It is surprising that the government hasn’t availed of the opportunity to resolve this issue during the State visit of the Queen to Ireland or last year’s visit of the President to Britain.

Another topic which remains unmentioned by the Government are the opportunities Irish unity offers on both sides of the border.

While the Good Friday Agreement provides the platform to achieve it, it also requires an active government to work towards it.

The Government has unveiled its program for the centenary of 1916. One of the government’s priorities for 2016 is a royal visit. Before organising further visits, we need to examine these issues.

Patrick Bamming

Portland Street

Dublin 1