'Boxer' goes to Washington for unveiling of 1916 plaque

Local Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran was in Washington DC this week to represent the Government at the unveiling of a 1916 commemorative plaque. 

The Minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief was attending the unveiling of the commemorative plaque which was presented to the US National Park Service on behalf of the President and people of Ireland to mark the anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising.

The commemorative plaque, which contains the wording of the 1916 Proclamation, will be showcased within the Washington Monument – a particular honour as memorial plaques are now accepted in only very rare circumstances.

"I was delighted to accept the invitation from the United States National Parks Service on the occasion of the reopening of the Washington Monument to the public," said 'Boxer'. 

"This plaque will now be visible to the public for the first time and honours the connection to George Washington and the fight for Independence. This rare honour celebrates the shared heritage of our two nations and reminds us of our precious friendship and ties."

"The plaque acknowledges the unique and exceptional links between our two countries and recognises the contribution which many Irish have made, and continue to make, to the United States of America," he added. 

The Washington Monument contains commemorative and memorial stones received from all 50 states, cities and towns across America. To date, it has commemorative and memorial plaques from just 16 other foreign countries.