Black and Tans defeated for a second time as Government retreats on commemoration
The Government has bowed to public opinion and decided to defer the event to commemorate the Royal Irish Constabulary and Dublin Metropolitan Police.
After much public disquiet, the decision was made this evening to cancel the event due to be held on Friday, January 17 in Dublin Castle.
In a statement released, Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said: “As a Government, we have at all times sought to have a national programme of commemorations that is authentic, sensitive and inclusive.
“We very much support the recommendation that there should be specific State-led initiatives to commemorate the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) and the Dublin Metropolitan Police (DMP).
“However, given the disappointing response of some to the planned event on 17th January, I do not believe that the event, as planned, can now take place in an atmosphere that meets the goals and guiding principles of the overall commemorative programme.
“Therefore, I am announcing its deferral.”
The controversy surrounding the event centred on the commemoration of the Auxiliary groups of the RIC, also known as the ‘Black and Tans’, who waged a brutal campaign in Ireland during the War of Independence.
