Taoiseach launches 1916 Rising Anniversary Stamp

13 April 2006

Commenting on the stamp, the Taoiseach said “The GPO is an iconic image in the history of this Republic. It represents the stage on which the key events of the 1916 Rising were played out. It is the most significant building, historically and architecturally, on the main street of this country's capital City. Its renewal following the devastation wreaked on it by the battle that raged during the Rising, is a reflection of the renewal that has taken place in this country in the intervening years. The modern day GPO represents the link between a nation struggling for independence and the realisation of a Sovereign Independent State that today is capable of achieving its 'exaltation among the nations'."

Ms Margaret McGinley, Chairperson of An Post, said: “It is a great honour for An Post to issue this stamp commemorating the 90th anniversary the 1916 Rising, one of the major turning points in Ireland’s history.”

The 48c stamp and First Day Cover were designed by Ms Ger Garland, based on a contemporary photograph of Dublin’s General Post Office by Donal Murphy.  The stamp is available from the Philatelic Bureau in the GPO, at main Post Offices and online at www.irishstamps.ie

Please contact the Press Office for further information