Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly TD has called for urgent action to
preserve and restore Ireland’s revolutionary heritage, particularly the GPO and the
historic Moore Street 1916 battle sites - the final headquarters of the leaders of the
Rising.
Catherine Connolly said:
“Moore Street is not just a collection of old buildings - it is the last living battlefield of
1916, a place that tells the story of courage, sacrifice and the struggle for Irish
freedom. It belongs to the people of Ireland, not to developers or speculators.
The idea of developing this area as a 1916 Cultural Quarter would be transformative for Dublin’s North Inner City, for cultural tourism, and for the people who live there.
It could become a vibrant centre of history, education, arts and community life,
breathing new life into a part of Dublin that has been neglected for far too long.”
Connolly said successive governments had failed to protect this national treasure:
“For years we’ve seen promises, plans, and reports - but no meaningful action. The
site remains derelict while developers circle. This Government has shown itself
powerless in the face of corporate greed and cultural vandalism.
A nation that allows its revolutionary landmarks to decay is a nation in danger of
losing touch with its soul. Preserving Moore Street is not just about buildings - it’s
about honouring those who fought for the Republic, and about giving a sense of
pride and purpose back to Dublin’s North Inner City.”
Connolly added that, as President, she would use her voice to promote the
protection of Ireland’s heritage and the revitalisation of Dublin’s historic heart:
“Our national story must be visible and valued. The GPO and Moore Street must be
restored, renewed, and reclaimed for the people. The Government’s inaction is
unacceptable - the time for excuses is over.”
ENDS
Contact: press@connollyforpresident.ie