Commemorative Monuments

What is a monument?

A monument is deemed to be a three-dimensional structure or a high and low relief, of architectural or sculptural design, erected to commemorate a person or event.

Who and what can be commemorated by a monument?

A monument is a lasting tribute to a person, group or event. Therefore, Dublin City Council needs to be confident that the subject of such a memorial is of sufficient importance that the decision to approve a monument will stand the test of time.

Individuals, organisations, and events can be commemorated by a monument, but there are some requirements:

• Proposals to commemorate living persons will not be considered
• Nominees will have to have died at least 20 years previously or have passed the centenary of their birth, whichever is earlier
• The person/s must have been born in or lived in Dublin or have had strong and/or enduring connections with the city
• The person/s must have made a unique and outstanding contribution to the life or history of Dublin through outstanding achievement, distinctive service or significant community contribution
• In the case of an event to be commemorated, this must have occurred in Dublin and the event will have to have occurred at least 20 years previously
• All proposals for monuments will be considered by the Commemorations & Naming Committee and, if approved, will be referred to the Arts and Cultural Advisory Group for consideration and recommendation on their artistic merit and technical feasibility

How do I propose that a monument be erected?

Important: Applicants are advised to apply for permission before commissioning the design or production of a monument/memorial. The design of all monument/memorials must be approved in advance by Dublin City Council, taking into account the advice of the Arts & Culture Advisory Committee.

You can propose that a monument be erected by submitting an application.

All proposals for monuments will be considered by the Commemorations & Naming Committee and, if approved, will be referred to the Arts and Cultural Advisory Group for consideration and recommendation on their artistic merit and technical feasibility.

Note: a proposal for a monument will be referred to the Arts and Cultural Advisory Group if it is considered to be purely public art and therefore more appropriate to that committee.