MATT DOYLE,
Sir, - Ninety years ago Amhrán na bhFiann was published. Some 30 years later Peadar Kearney passed away and was buried in the republican plot at Glasnevin.
Kearney's birthplace was 68 Dorset Street, long since gone. However, up to a few years ago, a plaque marked this spot. The plaque was removed prior to the recent development. Today a new block of apartments, named Derrynane Square, is on the site.
Dublin Corporation, in its wisdom, passed this name, possibly unaware of the importance of the site. The National Graves Association made contact with the builders, Cosgrave Homes, as far back as September 2000, with a view to erecting a new plaque. We are still awaiting a decision.
The association now calls on the Corporation to change its decision and honour Peadar Kearney by naming the apartments after him.
Within a short distance of Peadar Kearney's birthplace is Croke Park. On an All-Ireland Club Final Day or a Leinster Club Final Day, one can hear the strains of Amhrán na bhFiann being sung by the faithful. I believe it to be somewhat hypocritical of some Dublin Corporation officials to stand with their hand on their hearts bellowing out the National Anthem, considering the lack of respect they have shown the author. - Is mise,
MATT DOYLE,
National Graves Association,
Dame Street,
Dublin 2.