An inclusive, sensitive and meaningful programme to remember this complex and still painful period in our history, which recognises the legitimacy of all traditions and values mutual respect and historical authenticity, has been announced by the Irish Government.

The Government has allocated €5 million to the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, to support the delivery of the cross-governmental commemorative programme this year – maintaining funding levels on par with last year’s allocation. State partners and other organisations are also contributing funding from their own resources to support initiatives and programming.

The programme comprises four thematic strands; State Ceremonial, Historical Exploration, Community and Creative Imagination. State partners, local authorities, the national cultural institutions, institutions of learning, custodians of records, media and broadcasting organisations, artists and creative communities, will continue to have a leading role in curating initiatives to support respectful, inclusive and meaningful public engagement with these centenaries and associated themes.

Historical accuracy, academic integrity and archival discovery will continue to be key tenets underpinning the programme for the forthcoming period of commemorations. The programme aims to create interesting and imaginative opportunities that encourage as many people as possible to consider our shared history, in all of its complexity, in a respectful and supportive environment.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Taoiseach, Micheál Martin reflected:

“2022 will be an important, and sensitive year for commemorations as we remember the centenary of the onset of the Civil War in June.

"The objective of the Decade of Centenaries Programme is to provide opportunities for respectful and meaningful engagement from everyone who has an interest in this period, and to provide ways in which citizens of all ages can engage in our shared history."