Reclaiming the vision of 1916

“Reclaim the Vision of 1916—A Citizens’ Initiative for 2016” is a new organisation formed in order to reassert the political principles and objectives behind the watershed event in Irish history.

In 1916, the Proclamation of the Republic declared the right of the Irish people to the ownership of Ireland and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies. They wanted to realise this in a sovereign, independent Irish democracy that would have the welfare of all the citizens as its guiding principle. This vision has never been achieved, and the Irish people have borne the consequences of this failure.

“We believe that the 100th anniversary of the Rising presents an opportunity to open a meaningful dialogue among the citizens about the principles of 1916 and how they can be applied to the task of building an Irish democracy in the 21st century. In a genuine republic, the people would have full control over their own lives; the common good would be at the centre of decision making; and all the citizens would reap the benefits of a fully human society,” a statement from Robert Ballagh and Eugene McCartan said.

Reclaim the Vision of 1916 intends to organise three national events:

National Parade of Celebration on Sunday, 24 April 2016;

National Seminar in the spring of 2016; and

Significant publication.

“It is hoped that many individuals and groups throughout the country will affiliate to the initiative and participate in the national events, as well as organising their own activities. We invite those who are interested in joining with us in this project to contact us now, and we wish to cooperate with those who share our concerns and are organising their own events,” the statement said.