Families of the leaders of the 1916 Rising have backed plans to create a new “historical quarter” in the centre of Dublin.

The relatives are supporting a proposal from Fianna Fáil - The Moore Street Area Renewal and Development Bill 2015 - which would see the state buy the entire terrace around Number 16, Moore Street.

That building was the final headquarters of the Rising leaders before they surrendered 99 years ago.

Proinsias O'Rahilly, whose grandfather Michael died on a lane just off Moore St, has said the whole site needs to be saved for future generations:

“I hope the entire terrace now is saved and that this, up to now uncaring government, will just realise how angry, not alone the relatives are but how the descendants feel and that not alone should their memory be remembered but (also) the actual place where the last stand took place,” he said.

Fianna Fáil say the Bill will “establish an urban development company tasked with delivering urban regeneration at the very heart of Dublin city.” The party say their bill takes inspiration “from the successful regeneration project that took place in temple bar.”

“Moore Street is the birthplace of the Republic and it must be treasured one of our most important National Monuments ... If enacted, our Bill will establish a development company that will have powers to compulsory purchase land with the aim of revitalising the Moore Street area.

“The Moore Street site is of historic significance and should be given the prominence that it deserves. It also has great economic potential and we want to see a greater vision for the use of the whole terrace and adjoining lands on North O’Connell Street,” said Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Dublin, Senator Darragh O’Brien said.

James Connolly Heron, grandson of James Connolly, commented: “We commend this new and welcome initiative by Fianna Fáil. It goes much further than the Government’s plan to only protect the 1916 National Monument. In doing this we believe it not only reflects the wishes of the campaign and the 1916 relatives, but also the vast majority of the Irish people.”