Councillors clash over proposal to install new 1916 memorial in Wicklow
The Wicklow PeopleDistrict councillors in Arklow have clashed over proposals to use part of their discretionary funding towards the creation of a space in Arklow, with its centrepiece being a stone-carved reproduction of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic.
The space would be in keeping with similar commemorative features already established across County Wicklow.
The motion was brought forward by Cllr Warren O’Toole and seconded by Cllr Peir Leonard during the district’s September monthly meeting.
The initiative would also be expanded in scope to include Avoca and Aughrim, with “the vision of establishing a network of reflection spaces across the district.”
Cllr O’Toole believes these spaces would honour our historical legacy, while promoting civic pride and providing peaceful, inclusive public places for remembrance and community engagement.
“We have a rich history in Wicklow with links to the Easter Rising. People should be able to celebrate, and I believe a dedicated space would give members of the public a chance to reflect.”
In response Cllr Pat Fitzgerald said he wouldn’t be supporting the motion.
“I don’t think the town needs it at the moment, we already have strong links to 1916.”
Echoing those sentiments Cllr Sylvester Bourke said the town does a good job in commemorating the event.
“I believe we do it very well already. These pieces are costly and can take a long time to get installed. If we were to revisit this again in the future it could lead to a bigger, broader discussion about the proclamation and what it means today nearly 110 years later.”
Adding her voice to the discussion, Cllr Miriam Murphy said it was important that any proposals for a new piece or space are thought out carefully.
“I remember when discussions were taking place about the proclamation stone in Rathdrum, they took a long time before any agreement was reached. “It ended up in Rathdrum because there was nowhere else to put it.”
The 1916 memorial at Parnell Park in Rathdrum was unveiled by the Rathdrum Development Association in conjunction with Wicklow County Council as part of the Wicklow Commemorates programme in 2016.
Concluding the conversation Cllr Peir Leonard said it was important to reach a compromise.
“This proposal could provide us with an opportunity to think outside the box and get creative.”
“I think it’s good to have these pieces in public spaces. We could develop a concept for it and review it later.” she added.