16.05.2012
Archbishop Participates in National 1916 Commemoration
The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Michael Jackson, took part in the National 1916 Commemoration at Arbour Hill this morning. President Michael D Higgins, an Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore, former Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, and Chief Justice Susan Denham were among the dignitaries present at the annual ceremony.
Many Cabinet ministers were also in attendance including Minister for Finance Michael Noonan; Minister for Justice Alan Shatter; Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald; Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar; Minister for Communications Pat Rabbitte; and Minister for Jobs and Enterprise Richard Bruton.
Ceann Comhhairle Sean Barrett, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin and Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams were there along with many TDs and senators.
Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan and Army Chief of Staff Lieut Gen Sean McCann were the chief representatives of the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces. Dublin mayor Andrew Montague also attended.
Following the Mass, commemoration ceremonies were conducted at the graveside of the leaders of the 1916 Rising in the memorial garden. The Archbishop and other Inter–Faith representatives read prayers as part of the commemoration service.
President Higgins laid a wreath at the graveside after which a minute’s silence was kept. The Last Post was played by the Army Number One Band before the national flag was raised to full mast. The Number One Band then played Reveille and the national anthem.