Half of the population born in Ireland since 1820 have emigrated, some to win great fame and success around the globe. Their descendants— Irish Americans, Irish Australians, Irish in Britain, Irish in Patagonia or wherever - form part of the 70 million people worldwide who claim Irish ancestry. Imagine the 70 million as a shamrock chain, starting in Ireland, linked to New … [Read more...] about The First Word: The Shamrock Chain
The First Word
The Politics of Peace
By Emer Mullins
Once again, Northern Ireland dominates headlines, both in Ireland and internationally. The Manchester IRA bomb was a huge blow for the peace process and set back support in the U.S. for Sinn Féin. Once again, Gerry Adams has to answer whether or not he can bring about a ceasefire. But the IRA is not the only problem. Day after day, it seems it is one step forward and two steps … [Read more...] about The Politics of Peace
The First Word: A Whisper of Hope in Northern Ireland
There is an absence of joy so far this St. Patrick's Day season but not of hope. The end of the IRA cease-fire on February 9 and the subsequent bombings in London have cast a shadow over the celebrations of our Irish heritage, but all is not lost. Moves afoot as we went to press could certainly help change this gloomy scenario. By all accounts President Clinton is playing a … [Read more...] about The First Word: A Whisper of Hope in Northern Ireland
The First Word: The Madness Of It All
"IRA, Killing 2 Policemen Cripples the Irish Peace Talks," says the front page headline in the New York Times story by Sarah Lyall, writing from London. Indeed, the recent shootings of the two RUC officers was front page news around the world, and brought outrage from all corners. But, heinous as the IRA killings are, the IRA alone is not responsible for crippling the peace … [Read more...] about The First Word: The Madness Of It All
The First Word: Hope, Heritage and Hard Work
“Growing up in an Irish household, I learned the importance of connection and community. My fiercely Irish mother instilled in me a relentless work ethic, the ability to find joy in the face of adversity and a zest for life – qualities that have been indispensable in navigating both life and business.” - Kathleen McQuade Ellmore, Business 100 honoree The … [Read more...] about The First Word: Hope, Heritage and Hard Work