CHANCELLOR OF the National University of Ireland Dr Maurice Manning is to chair a group of leading authors and academics set up to advise the Government on centenary commemorations of major events from the period 1912-1916.
Former minister of state and government adviser on Northern Ireland Dr Martin Mansergh will also play a leading role in the Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations announced jointly by Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for the Arts Jimmy Deenihan.
Other members are: Prof Mary Daly of UCD; Prof John A Murphy; Prof Gearóid Ó Tuathaigh; Prof Eunan O’Halpin of TCD; Prof Diarmaid Ferriter; Dr Eamon Phoenix of Stranmillis University College, Belfast; Dr Leeann Lane of Dublin City University; Francis Devine, author of Organising History: A Centenary of Siptu; and Sinéad McCoole, author of Hazel: Life of Lady Lavery, 1880-1935.
A statement from the Department of the Taoiseach said the group would be initially involved in preparing “an overview statement to inform the development and delivery of the commemorative programme”.
Further statements “could address annual commemorative programmes and thematic issues”. The group will continue to exist for the duration of the commemorative programme, culminating in the centenary of the 1916 Rising.
Dr Manning said the principal role would be to advise the Government and the all-party Oireachtas group on the overall commemorative programme and many specific issues: “In particular, it will seek to set a tone that is inclusive and non-triumphalist, ensuring authenticity, proportionality and openness.”
The Government has expanded membership of the all-party Oireachtas Consultation Group on Centenary Commemorations, chaired by Mr Deenihan.
