Easter Rising centenary: Irish President lays wreath at execution site

Irish President Michael D Higgins lays a wreath at the spot of the execution of 15 rebel leaders in the 1916 Rising Credit: RTE/Pool

Ireland's President has started a day of commemorations by laying a wreath at the spot where 15 rebels were executed for their part in the 1916 Easter Rising.

In a ceremony at the Stone Breakers' Yard in Dublin's Kilmainham Gaol, President Michael D Higgins was flanked by a military guard of honour.

Prayers were said before acting Taoiseach Enda Kenny invited the President to lay the wreath "on behalf of the people of Ireland in honour of all those who died".

What was the Easter Rising?

  • A Republican rebellion in 1916 against British rule in Ireland

  • 1,350 people were killed or injured during the six day insurrection, which was crushed by the British

  • 15 rebel leaders were subsequently executed by British firing squad at Dublin's Kilmainham Gaol

  • The Rising is seen as a significant step towards the establishment of the Republic of Ireland

The ceremony was among the first in a national day of events, with a quarter of a million people expected to line the streets of Dublin for a military parade lasting several hours.

Around a quarter of a million people are expected to line Dublin's streets for the Easter Rising commemorations today Credit: RTE/Pool

It is expected to be the largest public spectacle in the history of the Republic.

Yesterday the President laid a wreath in the Garden of Remembrance in honour of all those who fought and died for Ireland's freedom.

On Easter Monday further commemorations are planned at each of the seven key battlefield sites in Dublin.