Micheál Martin has launched a stinging attack on Sinn Féin and its leader Gerry Adams.

Speaking at the Fianna Fáil annual commemoration of the 1916 Rising at Arbour Hill, Deputy Martin has accused Mr Adams of attempting to distort history.

The Fianna Fáil leader has used is oration at the event to criticise the Government's efforts for the centenary celebrations of the rising and Sinn Féin's plans for 2016.

Deputy Martin says Gerry Adams has attempted to simplify Ireland's recent turbulent past:

Dublin City Councillor for Sinn Féin Chris Andrews - who resigned from Fianna Fáil in 2012 - says Mr Martin's swipe at Sinn Féin is an attempt to distract away from issues within his own party.

He says that Sinn Féin is the party best suited to represent republicanism in Ireland:

Meanwhile the great grandson of one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising says he's concerned the centenary commemorations are turning into political football.

James Connolly Heron's - the great grandson of James Connolly - comments came as Fianna Fáil held its annual Arbour Hill event today.

However Mr Connolly Heron says the centenary shouldn't be used for political point scoring:

The Mayor of Dublin has also raised concerns about the politicising of the 1916 commemorations.

Independent Cllr Christy Burke says he fears it could distract from the work at hand:

Originally published at 10.36am