THOSE who participated in the 1916 Rising were "men and women of their time, using the methods of their time, to achieve a noble objective", the Taoiseach has said.
However, speaking yesterday at the Garden of Remembrance in Dublin at a commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the rebellion, Mr Bruton also said that "for us, in our day, we must use today's methods more appropriate to these times and settle our policy in the context of today's circumstances".
All problems and disagreements could be now resolved by exclusively peaceful methods.
Addressing a gathering of politicians and members of the public at the monument in Parnell Square, he said he had personally decided the ceremony at the Garden of Remembrance should be arranged this year to express respect for those who participated in the Rising. The 80th anniversary marked the start of a new era.
Last year, along with the Government, he had participated in the commemoration of the thousands of Irish who fell in the two world wars this century and on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the ending of the second World War.
"That was in line with the belief of the Government that it behoves us to accord recognition to all the traditions that helped to build and strengthen this nation and country. I have a very firm conviction of that necessity. But I believe no less that we should reaffirm our admiration for the heroes, the men and women, who took part in 1916", he added.
They had a unique, distinctive place in the creation of a free and independent Ireland and their action and sacrifice were a foundation stone of this State, Mr Bruton said.
The Rising, the War of Independence, the Civil War and the two World Wars had taken place in the first half of the century. In the second half, thanks to the creation of the EU and the spread of democracy, "we have a very different political climate".
Yesterday's commemoration was also attended by representatives of Fianna Fail, including the party's deputy leader, Ms Mary O'Rourke and members of the front bench. The Fine Gael leader of the Seanad, Senator Maurice Manning, was among the invited audience as well as the former Taoiseach, Dr Garret FitzGerald. Invited guests later attended a reception in the Municipal Gallery in Parnell Square.