Government plans for GPO 'insulting nation’s history' - Mayo councillor

TAOISEACH Micheál Martin and the government are insulting Irish identity and erasing the meaning of the sacrifices that built our Republic, a Mayo councillor has hit out over plans for the redevelopment of the GPO.

Aontú Councillor for Claremorris, Deirdre Lawless said: “The government plans to repurpose the GPO, sacred ground of the 1916 Rising, into a commercial venture. The very site where the Proclamation was read, where patriots took a stand, is being treated like a disposable commodity.

“Is nothing sacred?

“From downplaying Irish neutrality and sovereignty, to degrading landmarks like Moore Street and the GPO, this government is rewriting our history and seeking to erode our national identity.

“The Ireland they are trying to shape is one disconnected from its past, from its struggle, and from the very soul of its people.

“Aontú says: enough.

“The GPO is the heartbeat of our Republic. It must be preserved, not sold off.”

Aontú proposes the GPO becomes a permanent centre for Irish reunification, dialogue, and remembrance, 'fulfilling the vision of the 1916 Proclamation'.

The party has invited people to join them as they highlight their concerns on Tuesday next, July 8, at 7 p.m. outside the GPO.