The Irish Government has officially approved the progression of the 1916 Commemorative Centre at 14-17 Moore Street to the main construction tender stage.

This significant move, announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, alongside Ministers of State Christopher O'Sullivan, John Cummins, and Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, paves the way for the appointment of a preferred contractor.

The project, which is being delivered by the Office of Public Works (OPW), involves a comprehensive restoration of the National Monument buildings at 14-17 Moore Street. In addition to the conservation of these historic structures, the development will include a new visitor and cultural venue at 8-9 Moore Lane. This rear section is designed to provide public exhibition spaces, curatorial facilities, and a dedicated community resource.

Acquired by the Government in 2015, the site is historically significant as the final headquarters of the 1916 Rising leaders and the location where the decision to surrender was made. Following the tender process, it is anticipated that a contractor will be appointed within the current year, with site works commencing shortly thereafter.

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Minister James Browne TD expressed his support for the project's progression: "I am delighted today to announce further progress on this project. The National Monument site at 14-17 Moore Street not only sits in the centre of Dublin but also at the heart of our national story and who we are. With funding from my Department and the expertise of the OPW, we will rightly restore this site to prominence and create a space that sensitively reflects our history and commemorates the legacy of the Easter Rising. I look forward to work beginning on the site as soon as possible and to finally ensuring we have a fitting monument to the men and women of 1916 on Moore Street which is open to all our citizens."

Minister of State John Cummins TD highlighted the milestone as a demonstration of the Government's determination to see the project through, while Minister Christopher O'Sullivan noted that the restoration would play a vital role in the wider regeneration of Dublin's north inner city.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, added: "The Office of Public Works is proud to advance this landmark project at National Monument at 14-17 Moore Street, one of the most significant historic sites in our national story. As the State body entrusted with the care of Ireland's National Monuments, the OPW has led the detailed conservation planning and design work to ensure these buildings are restored with the sensitivity and respect they deserve. I look forward to seeing works commence and to the delivery of a vibrant cultural and visitor space that will appropriately commemorate the legacy of 1916 and serve the public for generations to come."

The project reaches this stage following extensive design and interpretative planning led by the OPW to ensure the preservation of the site's historical integrity while providing modern facilities for future generations.