The project is part of plans to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. Artist Robert Ballagh has been commissioned to design the memorial at the graves of the 10 executed men, whose remains were moved from Mountjoy Prison to Glasnevin in October 2001. Following consultation with the relatives of the men, the original covering stones from the Mountjoy plot will be incorporated in the new memorial.

The memorial is one part of a plan to increase the attractiveness of the cemetery to visitors. Greater attention will be paid to informing visitors about the historical significance of the cemetery. Work on linking the cemetery with the neighbouring Botanic Gardens will also be central to the redevelopment. The gardens will be given increased space within the grounds of the cemetery, with a new pathway between the two places. The work will be undertaken by the Cemeteries Committee and the Office of Public Works.

The redevelopment of Glasnevin is the latest in a series of moves by the government to prepare for the 2016 celebrations. A decision has already been taken to grant 16 Moore Street in Dublin, the last stand of the Rising leaders, the status of a national monument. A decision is expected shortly on the future use of the GPO, with moves to develop a museum there.