Minister launches easter rising centenary programme
Minister Heather Humphreys yesterday launch the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme, the national and international initiative to mark the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising.
‘Ireland 2016’ is to be a year-long programme of activity to commemorate the events of the 1916 Rising, to reflect on our achievements over the last 100 years and to look towards Ireland’s future. The programme includes seven strands; State Ceremonial; Historical Reflection; An Teanga Beo; Youth and Imagination; Cultural Expression; Community Participation; Global and Diaspora.
Major exhibition
Further details of the extensive nationwide programme will include a major exhibition of 1916 archival material at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, ‘Proclamation Day’ to be held on March 15, 2016, an Irish flag to be delivered to every school in the country, and State commemorative events, including a parade from Dublin Castle to Parnell Square on Easter Sunday 2016 and a special State Reception for relatives.
Speaking at the launch event at the National Museum of Ireland in Collins Barracks, which was also attended by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht said: “I am particularly excited about the education programme, which will be rolled out to every school across the country and will ensure children are at the centre of the commemorations. The arts will also have a key role; my Department is working with the Arts Council and our National Cultural Institutions on a comprehensive programme of cultural events, including a series of concerts at the National Concert Hall celebrating Ireland’s musical, literary and cultural heritage.”
Inclusivity
Ireland 2016, is seen by organisers as a year of reflection and engagement for everyone, with Minister Humphreys adding: “Inclusivity is at the heart of my approach to the Commemorations; I want to encourage everyone to get involved in their own way so we can make 2016 a year of imagination and inspiration.”