Senator David Norris has claimed former taoiseach Charles J Haughey would not have agreed with the cancellation of Bloomsday celebrations to make way for his funeral arrangements.
Speaking on RTÉ radio this morning, the Joycean scholar said he disagreed with the decision by event organisers to cancel all Bloomsday events at the James Joyce Centre as a mark of respect for Mr Haughey.
"I would not have taken that decision, but the decision had to be taken in a hurry," Senator Norris said.
"I would have maintained the centre open and I would have had a minute's silence in respect for Charlie Haughey and I'm perfectly certain that Mr Haughey would not have cancelled it himself," he claimed.
The centre, which had to close last September, reopened earlier this week.
Events planned for the centre included a traditional Irish breakfast with readings and performances.
Commenting on Mr Haughey's interest in James Joyce and his works, Senator Norris said "He was a great Joycean. He was a believer in life, that life goes on and I think he would have understood in a very practical way as well, as a matter of hospitality that we have many, many people coming from all over the world for the event."
"It is a pity. I wouldn't have done it. I don't think Charlie would have done it either. But life does go on. The centre will be open for coffee. And I will dress up in my usual old paraphernalia and I will recite a few pieces of putrid prose for the admiration of the public," he said.
"You can't cancel Bloomsday. You can't cancel Sunday. Perhaps you won't go to Church but it's still Sunday. And in Dublin the 16th of June will always be Bloomsday," he said.