Madam, – It appears that Niall Ginty (April 20th) is unhappy that we are not still under British control, and that he blames the 1916 revolutionaries for that state of affairs. In holding this point of view, he is undoubtedly part of a small minority, irrespective of the numbers who attended Easter week commemorations.
As one of those who attended the GPO – Ireland’s monument of revolution – on Easter Sunday, to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those who rebelled against the smothering control of the British empire, I believe it is appropriate that the Republic should continue to honour the event and those who took part in it. Indeed, I have no doubt that the attendance would have been considerably larger had the event been earlier and more widely advertised.
On a beautiful day, the turnout and marching precision of the various units of the Defence Forces were highly impressive, as was the performance of the military bands with music to instil pride in our identity and inheritance. Their marching to the strains of McAlpine’s Fusiliers, provided a rousing finale to a marvellous ceremony, which we should have been allowed to see in total.
Having heeded the advice and arrived on time, it was disappointing that most spectators had to watch the proceedings, happening mere metres in front of them, on large television screens. This was because a large group of VIPs arrived and occupied positions which blocked our view. Hopefully, better arrangements will be put in place next year. – Is mise,
LIAM Ó GÉIBHEANNAIGH
Cill Tiarnán,
Baile Átha Cliath 18.