A SMALL GROUP of protesters attempted to occupy a 1916 building on Moore Street this afternoon, forcing builders to down their tools.

The demonstration is being held to oppose building works – undertaken as part of the State’s commemoration – which activists are worried will destroy the terraced properties.

#Ireland Starry Plow flying above Moore Street Terrace as activists have made their way to the top of the buildings pic.twitter.com/qmLD2v3lGf — @FINGALOLS (@FINGALOLS) January 7, 2016 Source: @FINGALOLS /Twitter

The ‘Save Moore Street from Demolition’ group organised the rally following the erection of hoarding between 18 and 19 Moore Street, neighbouring properties to important buildings in the rebellion.

About 15 people are currently on the scaffolding, roof and in the buildings.

Speaking to TheJournal.ie, one of the activists Mick Mooney said they plan to remain in the building until a resolution is put in place.

The group, supported by a number of local politicians including People Before Profit Alliance councillor John Lyons, is concerned that planning permission granted to developers of a shopping centre allows for partial demolition.

“From the outside looking in, there is just hoarding. There is works going on. It is part demolition. The front won’t be touched but the back will be renovated, “continued Mooney.

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Preserving a handful of buildings on #MooreStreet while allowing horrific modern development alongside it amounts to cultural vandalism — Come Here To Me! (@chtmdublin) January 7, 2016 Source: Come Here To Me /Twitter

The Occupy Dame Street group has offered its support, posting on Facebook:

There is currently an occupation of the Moore street terraces with historical links to the 1916 rising.

Protesters have asked for people to bring them signs, locks and a megaphone.

The State has come in for much criticism despite its commitment to preserve numbers 14 to 17 Moore Street as part of this year’s commemorations. A visitor centre is also being built. People have called for the entire terrace to be protected.