An estimated 2,000 people gathered outside Dublin’s GPO yesterday to commemorate the 93rd anniversary of the 1916 Rising.
President Mary McAleese, Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea and Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Eibhlin Byrne were among the participants in the event.
Two large video screens, on either side of the GPO, relayed the ceremony, which included an Army pipers' lament and Air Corps fly past, was closely followed by the attendance.
Many of those present waited to observe the dignitaries depart, following a post-ceremony reception, hosted by Mr O'Dea, in the GPO.
The only political figure to receive a round of applause on arrival was Mrs McAleese.
As the ceremony got underway at noon, the national flag was lowered and Army chaplain Monsignor Eoin Thynne read a prayer of remembrance.
"We recall with affection all who gave their lives for the cause of peace during the struggle for independence,'' he said.
"Guide our nation in the way of justice and truth, and establish among us that peace which is the fruit of righteousness.''
Monsignor Thynne said that as people came to pray for those who had suffered and died for freedom, they knew that one day they would join them among the dead generations.
"May the hope and vision that were the inspiration of those we remember today, encourage us to look forward with optimism to the future and build a nation without violence, a nation that loves life and grows in justice and solidarity,'' he added.
As the 1916 Proclamation was read by Naval officer Lieut Erika Downing, the nearby Luas trams, made their way up and down Abbey Street, provided a backdrop of the modern Ireland to the historic words.
At the Taoiseach's invitation, President McAleese laid a wreath to commemorate the dead of 1916. A minute's silence was observed.
The last post was sounded, and the national flag was restored to full mast before the playing of the national anthem.
