The event which marked the 99th anniversary of the commemoration was well attended with people
coming from near and far to remember the four men who gave their lives in defence of the republic
99 years ago.
The event was chaired by Breandán Ó Conchúir, and the main oration was given by Mary Lou
Mcdonald TD
Wreaths were laid by Johnny Delany and Ossie Tumulty. The North Tipperary IRA roll of honour was
read by Warren Dunne. Mary McNamara read a poem commemorating the four men. Martin
Browne TD read the 1916 proclamation. Saoirse Lawlor Michelle O’Neill and Miriam O’Neill sang
Grace. The national anthem was played by pipe Joe Mooney.
In her oration Mary Lou spoke of how the four men died in the defence of the republic proclaimed in
1916, she stated that we are now in the dying days of partition and the republic these men fought
for will soon be a reality.
Breandán Ó Conchúir said.
It was an honour to be asked to chair the commemoration this year, I’d like to thank Wally Kirwan
and Micheal Donavan for all the work they put into organising the commemoration, and also to
thank everyone who attended.
It is unfortunate that the OPW at the last minute withdrew permission for the event to be held
inside the castle where the four men died. Wile this was unfortunate it did not prevent the
commemoration going ahead and being well attended by people from near and far. It was also great
to have relatives of the men present at todays commemoration.
We all hope that the OPW will work with us in the coming months as we prepare for the centenary
commemoration next year.
