Immigration into the Republic of Ireland has begun to push the troubles in the Six Counties of British-occupied Ireland off the political agenda in Dublin. It is the latest "hot button" issue. Long familiar with the economic, social and political consequences of emigration from Ireland over the centuries of English rule, the Irish body-politic now faces increasing strains and … [Read more...] about The Changing Face of Ireland
Issues
From Doubt to Defiance
"The guy who makes coffee for me I every morning in my local coffee shop in Brooklyn congratulated me when I won the Pulitzer," recounts John Patrick Shanley with a big grin. "Then, when I won the Tony, the guy says, `This cuppa coffee's on me.'" Shanley, the Irish-American playwright and screenwriter, lets out a hoot of laughter. "God knows what I have to do to get a free … [Read more...] about From Doubt to Defiance
First Word: Mortas Cine
"One thing that explains more than anything about me is the fact that I'm Irish." ~Eugene O'Neill Is there anything better than cuddling up with a good book? I was fortunate enough to have been brought up without television. Not because my parents were worried about it being a distraction from homework, but because Ireland was a bit behind the times. When we did get … [Read more...] about First Word: Mortas Cine
George Best Laid to Rest
Belfast was brought to a standstill when the remains of soccer legend George Best were returned to Roselawn Cemetery outside the city. Best, aged 59, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest ever soccer players, died from multiple organ failure. The ex-footballer had a liver transplant three years ago in an effort to cope with deteriorating health due to alcoholism. The … [Read more...] about George Best Laid to Rest
Irish President Meets Queen Elizabeth
Irish President Mary McAleese and Britain's Queen Elizabeth held a low-key "private meeting" at Hillsborough Castle, Co. Down. It was the fourth occasion that the two public figures had met but the first time such an encounter took place on Irish soil. "We both found ourselves in Northern Ireland on the same day coming up to Christmas and it seemed an opportune time to meet … [Read more...] about Irish President Meets Queen Elizabeth