Madam, – It is remarkable that a debate of sorts is taking place regarding the future use of the GPO at a time when a mere 100m away in Moore Street a National Monument in honour of the men and women of 1916 lies derelict. The plan to transform the GPO should, of course, be linked to the rejuvenation of the Moore Street area as an historic quarter – its streets and laneways are directly linked to the 1916 Rising.
The present application by the developer of the area in seeking Minister for the Environment John Gormley’s consent to build on and demolish protected structures that form part of the Monument at 14 to 17 Moore Street and site kitchens and toilet facilities in the basement area of the buildings shows a breathtaking disregard for its status that would not be tolerated in any other country. More disturbing, this national monument may well become embroiled in the Anglo Irish Bank scandal depending on the result of the Garda investigation into activities by that bank’s so-called “golden circle”. The continuing deterioration of this national monument is a national disgrace. There should be immediate Government intervention to ensure that its preservation, protection and status is secured in the national interest. Only then should consideration be given to the future use of the GPO. Anything less is an insult to those the monument purports to honour and to their descendants.
– Yours, etc,