Carál Ní Chuilín has pledged her support for a campaign to preserve areas of Dublin City involved in the Easter Rising.

The Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure made the announcement following today’s Stormont visit by of relatives of the leaders of the 1916 rebellion.

The delegation was part of a campaign to preserve the site in Moore Street, Dublin, where one of the battles took place.

The Easter Rising is the name given to the violent 1916 rebellion in Dublin against British rule in Ireland.

The families of those involved in the Rising argue that certain buildings in the city, namely in Moore Street and O’Connell Street, should be preserved due to their historical and cultural importance.

They are currently fighting plans to redevelop one of the sites as a shopping centre.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Ní Chuilín said: "The Moore Street campaigners are an inspiring and dedicated group of relatives who are committed to securing an inclusive and respectful remembrance of the Easter 1916 battlefield site.

"This is one of Ireland’s greatest historical landmarks. It was a privilege listening to the relatives outlining their vision for its future, as well as their concerns about the current development agenda in the area."

She added: "I agree with the relatives that this area of Dublin should be preserved and promoted for its significance in historic, public and tourism terms.

"I have previously engaged with my Dublin counterpart, Minister Jimmy Deenihan, on this issue and intend to do so again. I pledge my ongoing support for the Moore Street campaign in the time ahead."

Some members of the campaign include relatives of Padraig Pearse, who led the rebellion, and a great grandson of James Connolly.

The delegation arrived at the invitation of Sinn Féin and was be welcomed by deputy first minister Martin McGuinness and Minister Ní Chuilín.

(IT/GK)