A senior Fianna Fail figure says he does not believe it would be appropriate to invite a member of the British royal family to the 1916 commemorations.

Eamon O'Cuiv says such a move could be a serious distraction from the significance of the celebrations.

His grandfather, Eamon De Valera, was one of the leaders during the 1916 Easter rising.

Deputy O'Cuiv says he is not opposed to members of the British royal family coming to Ireland - but just not for 1916 events.