Removal of remains is macabre, undignified

The archaeological ‘dig’ to locate the remains of executed 1916 man Thomas Kent in Collins Barracks Cork, with a view to a subsequent pomp-and-circumstance reburial, is surely an ill-conceived and undignified project.

We could do without another manifestation of this morbid, self-indulgent nationalist propensity.

The proposed use of DNA technology to identify the remains only adds to the macabre nature of the proceedings.

Victoria Barracks, garrison base in 1916, is now Collins Barracks, the home of a native and independent soldiery.

This revolutionary change was brought about by the ultimate sacrifice of men like Thomas Kent and it makes the present location, with a suitable monument, a proper and final resting place for the patriot.

Never was the phrase ‘rest in peace’ more apt than in this instance.

John A Murphy

Emeritus Professor of History

University College Cork