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Irish Times
04-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
The Irish Times view on plans for the GPO: a terrible idea is born
The GPO occupies a space in Irish life that transcends bricks and mortar. More than a functioning post office or architectural anchor of O'Connell Street, it is the most resonant physical symbol of the struggle for Irish independence. It is no surprise, then, that the Government's vague and ill-defined outline for its redevelopment, framed in response to the Dublin City Taskforce report, has drawn such emotional and at times overheated criticism. Sinn Féin and Aontú have accused the Government of plotting to turn the GPO into 'a shopping centre'. While this charge is more rhetorical than realistic – the proposals include 're-imagined retail components' in the existing shops on Henry Street and the GPO Arcade – it reflects an understandable fear that the site's dignity might be compromised in the name of commercial convenience. The idea of a Starbucks beneath the watchful gaze of Cúchulainn rightly causes discomfort, however improbable it may be. Still, the reaction should not obscure the need for careful scrutiny of what is being proposed. Among the Government's stated intentions are to retain a post office function, enhance the public realm, integrate retail elements and introduce 'significant cultural uses'. Thus far, so good. But it also includes a plan to install a 'high-quality office element on the upper floors to meet ongoing and additional Government requirements'. This is where the proposal veers off course. READ MORE At a time when central Dublin is not short of modern office space – much of it lying vacant – it is difficult to comprehend why the State would invest in converting a historic and architecturally sensitive complex from the 1920s into more civil service workspace. Such a move appears not only unnecessary but tone-deaf to the symbolic role of the building and the opportunity it presents. The north inner city, and O'Connell Street in particular, have suffered decades of neglect and decline. The GPO, if imaginatively and respectfully revitalised, could be a cornerstone in the area's cultural and civic renewal. That opportunity must not be squandered. A successful redevelopment should put heritage and public engagement at its core. It must help residents and visitors alike understand the GPO's extraordinary role in Ireland's history, something the current museum on the premises only begins to do. It should also include new public cultural venues: not just one, but several, ensuring that this central, national site is animated with meaning and public value. As Labour's Marie Sherlock and An Post CEO David McRedmond (who chaired the original taskforce and knows the building as well as anyone) have rightly pointed out, there are better options for additional office space elsewhere. The GPO deserves more than functional repurposing. It deserves vision, respect and ambition.
Geek Vibes Nation
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Michael Collins' Blu-Ray Review - A Captivating Look At A Real-Life Revolutionary
Michael Collins tells the powerful, turbulent story of one of Ireland's most controversial patriots and revolutionary heroes, known as 'The Lion Of Ireland', who leads his countrymen in their fight for independence. Set in the early 20th century, when a monumental history of oppression and bloodshed had divided Ireland and its people, the film covers the bloody 1916 Easter Uprising, when Irish revolutionaries surrendered to the overwhelming military power of the British forces and Collins was arrested. Upon his release, he takes leadership of the Irish independence movement and strives to create a free and peaceful country. For thoughts on Michael Collins, please check out my thoughts on No Streaming Required: Video Quality Michael Collins was released on Blu-Ray in 2016 courtesy of the Warner Archive with a sturdy 1080p transfer derived from a 2K scan of the Interpositive. This is not the most overtly colorful film, but key pieces of production design and some stunning environments compensate for this with some bold hues. The transfer retains the valuable texture of the natural film grain that resolves evenly throughout the journey. There is a plethora of detail uncovered within the backgrounds and on some of the costumes. No signs of ugly compression artifacts or banding were spotted throughout. Warner Archive allows this one to look its best. Audio Quality This Blu-Ray features a stirring DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio surround sound track that commendably showcases the original soundscape. This track provides a presentation clear of any obvious blemishes or digital anomalies that would disrupt the viewing experience. Dialogue is crisp and clear without being overshadowed by narratively impactful sound effects. The environmental noises are not distractingly showy in the rear speakers, but everything expands out quite naturally. The exceptional score from Elliot Goldenthal is treated respectfully and blends well within the mix. This track is a winner. Optional English SDH, French, Spanish, and an array of other subtitles are provided for those who desire them. Special Features Audio Commentary: Director Neil Jordan provides a commentary track recorded in 2015 in which he reflects on the production of the film, his inspiration for wanting to tell this story, the dramatic license he took with the film, the response to the film, the history of Ireland, and more. In Conversation with Neil Jordan: A nearly five-minute interview with the filmmaker who introduces the film and discusses its legacy. South Bank Show: A 51-minute episode of the series that explores the release of Michael Collins through interviews with Neil Jordan, Liam Neeson, producer Stephen Wooley, historians, and more, along with historical and behind-the-scenes footage. Deleted Scenes: There is a six-minute collection of unused material provided. Theatrical Trailer (1:44) Final Thoughts Michael Collins is a captivating look at a real-life historical figure who fought for his country with a ferociousness and tenacity that made him a hero and a villain, depending on the perspective. Liam Neeson offers one of his strongest dramatic turns here, and the remainder of the ensemble match him (when they are given the right material). The film has a mighty runtime, but the direction of Neil Jordan ensures that the film is never less than gripping. Warner Archive has released a Blu-Ray featuring a worthy A/V presentation and welcome special features. If you appreciate a good historical drama, this one is a winner. Recommended Michael Collins can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or through various other online retailers. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Warner Archive has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
