The idea that this is about the statue bombings is making is making more and more sense to me as I read the words some of you have figured out. There is a great (and humorous) song written by Tommy Makem about the destruction of Nelson's statue in 1966, that is in the database somewhere. It ends with Dan O'Connell's statue (standing downwind of Nelson's) lamenting that he'll have twice as many pigeons now sitting (and shitting) on him!
A few things still confusing me, though: What is "Poppy Day?" What do George and King Billy refer to (Other statues, maybe)? Why the reference to The Lion and the Unicorn? Any Irish historians or Dubliners who might be able to cast light on this stuff?

Thanks for all your help,
Jennifer