Events to mark 1798 announced

A calendar of events for the bicentenary commemoration of the 1798 rebellion next year was formally launched yesterday.

A calendar of events for the bicentenary commemoration of the 1798 rebellion next year was formally launched yesterday.

"The Rising of 1798 - to commemorate or condemn?" was debated at the launch by The Irish Times columnist, Mr Kevin Myers, and Wexford historian and journalist, Mr Nicky Furlong.

A bonfire will be lit at the summit of Vinegar Hill on New Year's Eve in Enniscorthy, to officially begin the commemorations. In July, Enniscorthy will host a stage start of the Tour de France, while the Teeling Centre in Collooney, Co Sligo will host a Bastille Day Ball the following night.