Monumental victory no cause for complacency
The recommendation by Dublin City Council recently to list 16 Moore Street as a protected structure is a service to the nation and justifies the association’s campaign.
From early 2002, it has been argued that 16 Moore Street is a national monument and thereby a matter of national importance.
The large correspondence received from right across the political divide makes interesting reading. The Shaffrey report has vindicated everything the National Graves Association has been seeking.
In July 2005, the association, in conjunction with Dominic Dunne of An Taisce, discussed the possibility of forming a ‘Save 16 Moore St Committee.’ In August this committee was formed and the role of An Taisce, Damien Cassidy, secretary, 16 Moore St committee, and the committee members, cannot be overestimated. The role of the National Graves Association in matters of national importance can be best demonstrated by our determination to save Kilmainham Jail in the 1930s and the Croppies Acre in 1997.
Today, that same determination is very much evident in our role regarding 16 Moore Street.
However, we could become complacent knowing that the council has made only a formal request to Environment Minister Dick Roche to declare 14-17 Moore Street a national monument. But, having seen the fate of Wood Quay and the cultural vandalism of parts of Dublin, we will remain vigilant and resolute.
Matt Doyle
Secretary
National Graves Association
74 Dame Street
Dublin 2
