Graffiti removed from Republican headstones after local activists rally

Graffiti removed from Republican headstones after local activists rally The graffiti that tarnished headstones in the republican plot at St. Finbarr’s Cemetery has been removed in time for today’s annual Easter Rising Commemoration. The mindless vandalism has been fully cleaned from the graves, including that of former Lord Mayor Tomás MacCurtain, following a two day cleaning operation carried out by members of The Phoenix Historical Society, Sinn Féin and concerned members of the community. Sinn Féin Councillor Mick Nugent, who spent a great deal of time at the plot of over the last forty-eight hours, has thanked everyone who took part in the cleaning effort and he moved to reassure members of the public that the plot is now in immaculate condition ahead of tomorrow’s ceremonies. Councillor Nugent said: “After the initial understandable shock and anger, we got down to the work of returning the headstones to their rightful condition. It has been a very busy couple of days but I am glad to say that the Republican plot is now in pristine condition for today’s Easter Rising commemoration.” “I want to thank all those who took part in the clean-up operation and those who expressed their disgust at such an act. Regardless of political perspective, most would acknowledge that this graves symbolise a very significant strand of both Irish and local Cork history. I genuinely hope that those responsible will now reflect on their actions and feel some sense of remorse. “But the main message is positive. The mindless tagging has been removed and we are ready to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of Irish freedom today. We would encourage all the people of Cork to come along and join the ceremony. The Republican plot in St.Finbarr’s cemetery is the final resting place for many of those to whom we owe so much. It would be a fitting tribute to their memories if we can match the crowd that came out last year when Gerry Adams gave the main oration. It would also send a message to the vandals that we, as a community, abhor their behaviour and the desecration of our history.” The commemoration will assemble at 2.30pm at the National Monument on the Grand Parade and will parade to St.Finbarr’s Cemetery via Barrack Street. The main oration will be delivered by Sinn Féin Social Protection Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh. Schedule of Easter Rising Commemorations throughout Cork: •11:00am Macroom. Wreath-laying ceremony •11:00am Youghal. Speaker: Jonathan O’Brien •12 noon Clonakilty. Speaker: Chris O’Leary •12:30pm Bandon. Speaker: Aengus Ó Snodaigh •2:30pm Cork City. Speaker: Aengus Ó Snodaigh ENDS