For such a relatively small place, Ireland casts a big shadow on the world’s conciousness, and it always has. Part of Europe, both legally and emotionally, it is also a big part of Britain, as well. If we – for just a moment – put aside all of the political and religious battles that have been waged for centuries on this emerald isle, what constantly shines above all is the courage, bravery and ever-powerful sense of humour that fills this island from coast-to-coast, top-to-bottom.
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The Irish relish a sense of irony and it appears repeatedly in conversations with the people, but always tempered with a sense of reality and downright common sense. They will fight to their last thread of energy, but they will also stroll with you to the pub when the fight is over. And have we mentioned their sense of humour? Uproarious, cheeky, honest, addictive and plentiful. When they’re in the room, prepare yourself for a laugh outloud experience.
Above and beyond The Troubles that permanently scarred Ireland in the 1970’s and essentially split the country in two (Protestants versus Catholics,) it seemed like the country had calmed down, licked its wounds over the decades and was starting to be able to breathe again. But, on January 31, 2020, Britain (and Northern Ireland, collectively known as The UK,) who had been a member state of the union and its predecessor the European Communities since 1 January 1973.) left the European Union. To this day, a lot remains unanswered. Many of us are still bitterly disappointed in the Brexit vote, and it has set the UK back in many ways since then.
* Pope John Paul II
But what does the future bring? Watch the video below to find out.