The Group and its members deeply understood the historical and emotional significance of all the centenaries surrounding Irish independence and the formation of Northern Ireland, and their reports are seminal reading for anyone looking back at these periods and also wanting to understand them in the context of modern Ireland.
Upon learning of Éamon’s passing, then Taoiseach Micheál Martin said:
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Éamon Phoenix, a historian of rare talent whose invaluable insights did so much to illuminate the story of Ireland’s politics and past.
“I especially pay tribute to his contribution as a member of the Irish Government’s Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations.
“His work brought new levels of understanding to our society’s past, and what may lay ahead.”
The objective of the State centenary commemoration programme was to ensure that the complex period in Ireland’s history was remembered “appropriately, proportionately, respectfully and with sensitivity”.
It was based on a four-stranded approach:
- A State Ceremonial strand
- A Historical Strand
- A Community Strand
- And a Creative Imagination Strand.
The strands were designed to cherish and understand the links to Northern Ireland’s communities and Éamon’s contribution was deeply valued.