While waiting in the Headquarters block in Moore Street, James Ryan Volunteer Medical Officer was summoned by James Connolly. Connolly who had been shot the previous day was getting ready to be moved to Dublin Castle and wanted his dressing changed. Taking the chance James Ryan asked Connolly what would be the outcome for the men.
We’ll be all shot, but you’ll go free.
A few hours later the men surrendered and were held overnight in the grounds of the Rotunda.
Dr James Ryan was a member of ‘B’ Company, 1st Battalion, Dublin Brigade, Irish Volunteers.
Dr James Ryan was interviewed for the radio series 'The Week of the Rising', broadcast on Radio Éireann, 16 April 1966. Photograph of Dr James Ryan courtesy of Military Archives.