Press Release RE: Royal Family & 1916 Commemorations

Thursday, June 19th 2014

Majority of Dubliners would welcome Royal Family at 1916 commemorations, says former Lord Mayor

Former Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Naoise Ó Muirí has said he believes the majority of Dubliners would welcome members of the British royal family to the 1916 centenary celebrations, if invited.

“The current Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Christy Burke is calling on the Taoiseach to keep British royal family members firmly in the background of any celebrations that may take place,” Councillor Ó Múirí explained.

“While I respect the Lord Mayor’s personal view I don’t think it reflects the views of the majority of people living in Dublin,” he pointed out.

“I understand that there may be a Motion forthcoming on this matter and I look forward to debating it fully at the next meeting of Dublin City Council,” Councillor Ó Muirí added.

“Sinn Féin, as the largest group on Dublin City Council, has an important strategic decision to make in relation to the 1916 commemoration.  Will they embrace an inclusive and forward-looking commemoration as part of normalisation of relations across the 32 counties or will they remain rooted in the past?”

ENDS