BRITAIN’S Royal Family is unlikely to make an appearance at Ireland’s 1916 centenary celebrations next year, it has emerged.
It is understood that a Dáil sub-committee on the matter has effectively blocked the idea, with security issues a major cause of concern.
The proposal had been visited frequently in recent years, as Ireland gears up to celebrate 100 years of independence.
It had been suggested that the state event should include British representatives to acknowledge the shared history of the two nations – though family members of those who died during the Easter Rising felt it would be inappropriate.
Former Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore first expressed support for the idea while in office two years ago – with Queen Elizabeth making similar comments during the state visit of President Higgins last year.
But Eamon Ó Cuív of Fianna Fáil, a grandson of 1916 leader Eamon de Valera, opposed the idea, as did the Sinn Féin party.
It was felt by some that the presence of a representative of the Royal Family would be a distraction from the celebrations and that the landmark anniversary should not be used as a diplomatic opportunity.
As yet there has been no official confirmation that there will not be a Royal presence at the centenary celebrations.
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