Sir, – James Connolly Heron tells us that the 1916 Rising "is in our collective DNA", a new and interesting genomic interpretation of Irish history that would seem to preclude an analysis of events ("Leaders of Rising deserve tribute in commemoration", Opinion & Analysis, June 24th).
He assures us that no mandate was required for the violence of Easter week, a view that has informed the century-long 1916 legacy of political violence inflicted on this island.
In fairness, his ancestor, James Connolly, was the only signatory of the 1916 Proclamation who ever sought an electoral mandate. He stood twice for the Dublin Corporation and was rejected on both occasions by the electorate.
James Connolly Heron makes no reference to the civilian deaths of Easter Week 1916 nor to the 1916 legacy of political violence – still ongoing – nor to the national retardation, the division of this island and the postponement of reconciliation to which it contributed. – Yours, etc,
SEÁN McDONAGH,
Raheny,
Dublin 5.