Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin is planning a State commemoration for War of Independence hero Michael Collins next year.
Mr Collins was the leader of the pro-Treaty side in the Civil War of a century ago, going head-to-head with the anti-Treaty forces of Eamon De Valera, founding father of Fianna Fáil.
But Mr Martin, as Taoiseach, has revealed plans of a State ceremony to mark Mr Collins’ death later next year.
Mr Collins was killed on August 22 1922 near Beal na mBlath in Co Cork during the Civil War.
The identity of the shooter remains a mystery almost 100 years later.
However, the Taoiseach has ruled out a State inquiry into who shot the Irish republican leader dead, saying it would be the wrong way to approach the source of controversy.
Mr Martin said that he signed off on a plan to put resources into Beal na mBlath to create a proper memorial.
“I think we should commemorate the centenary of the death of Michael Collins in the manner we would commemorate the loss of a statesman.”
“I was struck, when I read the [Michael Collins] diaries that we were presented with, that commitment shines through, and indeed it shines through all of the records and archives that have been made available.
“I think we should honour the leaders of that period without fear or favour and do it in a proper way.”
Asked whether a historical inquiry into Mr Collin’s death would be a step too far, Mr Martin said it is the wrong way to go through the past.
“I much prefer the work of academics, good, solid, informed histories.”
Mr Martin added: “Let’s not approach history with the perspectives of today or with your own prejudices.
“You should approach history objectively and try to tell the story as it was through the prism of those who were there at the time, and what their impulses were and what their emotions were.
“History is complex.”
