New Derry group to mark anniversary of 1916 Rising

A commemoration event is to be held in Derry as part of a new initiative set up to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Organisers say it is supported by a wide range of republican groups, including the Irish Republican Socialist Party, 32 County Sovereignty Movement and Republican Network for Unity.

The commemoration will place on Sunday, April 17.

No other details have yet been released about the event.

Tony Taylor, spokesperson for the organisers, said: ““This is very much a progressive local initiative, made up of people, who passionately believe that we must continue not only to remember the bravery, dignity and sacrifice of the brave men and women of Easter Week and those in the following generations who followed in their footsteps, but equally the principles and ideals for which they fought and died.

“While others would prefer to airbrush away our proud history and undermine the values of Easter 1916, we aim to pay fitting homage tobthe men, women and children of the Rising, it ideals for which it was fought and our local patriot dead.

“To do this we aim to bring together as diverse a body of people as possible.

“We will unveil a fitting 1916 Easter Rising Centenary Monument, and organise a centenary commemoration in the City that everyone who continues to espouse the principles of the Proclamation may have ownership of.”

Mr Taylor said the April 17 commemoration event would mark the beginning of the week of preparation leading up to the Easter Rising.

He added: “Full details of the commemoration will follow. We welcome anyone who supports this initiative and wants to contribute in any way possible.”